A Heat Advisory and Air Quality Alert are in effect for today... and, the advisory will last into early next week. That from Forecaster Jon Hitchcock with the National Weather Service in Buffalo... who says temperature and humidity levels will continue ramping up through Sunday night. Hitchcock adds the heat index values will be in the mid-90s today... and, possibly into the low 100s by Sunday. He says we'll see some relief after Monday... but, not much. Hitchcock says a cold front will finally move through the region by next weekend. Hitchcock says temperatures inland away from Lake Erie will run into the lower 90s today... and, could reach 95-degrees on Sunday. The Heat Advisory runs from now through 10 p.m. Monday. The State Department of Environmental Conservation has also issued an Air Quality Alert for much of New York state... including all of Western New York. The alert is in effect for Ozone until 11 p.m. tonight.

County Office for Aging Director urges people to keep an eye on seniors during heat wave...

The unseasonably hot weather the next few days has led state and local Offices for the Aging to warn senior citizens and their caregivers about high temperatures as a heat wave moves in for the weekend. Officials say hot weather can be particularly dangerous for older adults, especially those who live alone, or have chronic health conditions. Chautauqua County Office for the Aging Director Mary Ann Spanos urges the elderly to drink plenty of water during this time period. Spanos adds you should also try to keep cool in the house by keeping drapes and shades closed -- especially if you have no air conditioning. She adds limit outdoor activity between 1 and 3 p.m. when the sun is at it's hottest. Spanos adds that if you need a place to beat the heat... there are several designated cooling stations across the county... including some libraries and senior centers that are cooled. For more information on where the cooling centers are... Spanos says call their NY Connects number at 753-4582. She also again reminds residents to check on their elderly neighbors who are living alone during the heat wave.

Local Humane Society urges people to keep on eye on their pets during warm spell...

With that heat advisory... officials with the Chautauqua County Humane Society are reminding pet-owners to be cautious of 'Fido and Fifi' during hot and humid weather conditions. They say it's best to keep animals cool because most have fur on year-round. They add another important item is to be aware of to never leave your pets alone in a parked vehicle, even with the windows cracked, because it can get real hot -- real quick. For more pet safety info, visits www.spcapets.com.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed legislation that allows immigrant parents to designate a "standby guardian" for their children if the parent is detained in New York or faces deportation. The Democrat signed the legislation at a community college in the Bronx on Wednesday, a day after a federal judge ordered immigrant families separated at the border to be reunited. The measure passed by the state Legislature last week changes wording in a law that allows a parent to designate a guardian should the parent become incapacitated. The new law allows a standby guardian's authority to immediately begin when a child is separated from a parent.

Ribbon cut to open up Phase-5 of Greater Jamestown Riverwalk...

The ribbon has been cut on the newest section of the Greater Jamestown Riverwalk -- not far from the McCrea Point Boat Launch. The 1.2-mile bicycle and walking trail runs over the former J-&-W Railbed between Chadakoin Park and the river. The project cost just over $500,000... but, it's Genesis was 44 years ago with a letter from Jamestown High School Senior Cindy Hedberg-Sorenson to then Mayor Stan Lundine. Sorenson was unable to attend the ribbon cutting... but, Lundine was on hand. He recalled the days of the railroad... and steamboats as he was growing up. He says the steamboats used to come down the outlet directly behind them. Lundine was invited by current Mayor Sam Teresi... who thanked the city Parks and Recreation staff, and Public Works Department for their efforts to complete Phase-5 of the riverwalk project from Eight Street to Clifton Avenue in a beautiful area of the city. The city received a Local Waterfront Revitalization Program grant from the state for just over $262,000 for the project. It was matched by the city.

Randolph man arrested following vehicle pursuit...

A Randolph man is being held on $5,000 cash bail following a vehichle pursuit in the town Wednesday night. Cattaraugus County Sheriff's deputies say they attempted to take 56 year-old David Hare into custody on an outstanding warrant just after 11:30 p.m. when he allegedly fled the scene in a vehicle, leading deputies on a pursuit. Officers were able to arrest Hare when he eventually stopped his vehicle. While in custody.... deputies say Hare was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine. He was arraigned and sent to the county jail on several charges including second-degree reckless endangerment, obstruction and various traffic infractions. He is due back in court at a later date.

A man from the town of Busti faces several charges following a domestic incident last Monday afternoon at a home on Hoag Road in the town...

Lakewood-Busti Police say they were called to the scene at 1974 Hoag Road just after 3 p.m. and, talked with the female victim. She told officers that 27 year-old Tyler Johnson had assaulted her, and held her against her will for a period of time. Police say further investigation led them to get a warrant and, the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force later assisted in a raid at the Hoag Road address. Johnson was taken into custody and arraigned on charges including second-degree assault, and second-degree unlawful inprisonment. He was sent to the county jail with bail to be set.

A man from Warren, Pennsylvania has been formally charged with 111 counts of sexual abuse of children after he was allegedly found in possession of child pornography at the Warren State Hospital...

State Police in Warren say they were called to the scene in North Warren back on May 31 and, found that 58 year-old Thomas Wolosyn was in possession of "numerous" images of child porn. Troopers say Wolosyn also faces 111 counts of criminal use of a communication facility. A preliminary hearing is pending.

As the Independence nears, Chautauqua Lake is in 'generally good condition.' That's the assessment of two officials of the Chautauqua Lake Association...

This year's report by the Social Security and Medicare Boards of Trustees says long-term funding shortfalls continue for both programs and, that should be a wake-up call for federal lawmakers...

Those are the feelings of local Congressman Tom Reed, who says the report shows Medicare will become insolvent by the year 2026 and, Social Security by 2034. The trustees say lawmakers have a "broad continuum" of options to close or reduce those shortfalls. Reed agrees and, adds action needs to be taken sooner rather than later.

Reed says he feels moving away from the current "fee for service" type program for Medicare would be best and, bring costs down. He also would like to see more emphasis on better end of life care from Hospice and palliative care programs. The trustees report also shows that the Social Security Disability fund will become depleted in 2032, but that's better than last year's projections. Reed made his comments during his weekly telephone conference call with Southern Tier Media.

Chautauqua County has been recognized by a state agency for making several strides in recent years to become more energy efficient, cut costs and promote clean energy use...

The county recently received a "Clean Energy Community Designation" from the New York State Energey Research and Development Authority. That from County Junior Planner Michael Longley, who says the county recently took four required actions to get the designation. He says the action he was directly involved with was taking part in a six-month-long program called Solar Chautauqua.

Longley says the other "high-impact" actions include energy benchmarking for all county facilities to make them more efficient, obtained two, electric heavy duty trucks for two of the county's transfer stations. They also established an Energize NY Finance Program to help local businesses and not-for-profits become more energy efficent. The designation will also bring $150,000 to the county for further energy efficiency projects. It's one of four such grants in Western New York.

Former "Sex and the City" star Cynthia Nixon is taking inspiration from Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's Democratic primary victory over a 10-term congressman as she battles Governor Andrew Cuomo...

The liberal activist says voters are eager to retire establishment insiders. Cuomo and his supporters say there's no comparing one congressional primary to the contest for governor.

The ribbon will be cut today at 1:30 p.m. for the newest part of Jamestown's Riverwalk trail...

The section runs from 8th Street to Clifton Avenue along the abandoned Jamestown, Westfield and Northwestern railroad. The 1.2 mile trail is 10 feet wide and includes three pedestrian bridges across some of the wetter parts of the swamp. Mayor Sam Teresi says the new section 'takes you away from everything... you don't even realize you're in the city.' Jamestown matched a state grant to build the half-million dollar project. The ribbon will be cut by former Mayor Stan Lundine, and Cindy Hedberg Sorenson. She wrote a letter to Lundine in the 1970's advocating for such a trail. The event will be at the Chadakoin River overlook, not far from the Weinstein recycling facility off 8th Street.

A dog that aggressively charged at two Jamestown police officers yesterday afternoon was shot by one officer and, later died at a local veterinarian's office...

City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says the officers were looking for a subject on an outstanding warrant at 222 Winsor Street just before 2 PM. Samuelson says, as both officers approached the home, a large Pit Bull/Mastiff charged at both men while they were walking on the sidewalk. He says one policeman discharged his duty weapon, and struck the animal. No persons were hurt. Samuelson says the owner was issued a summons for having a dog "at-large" that attacks and a $50.00 fine. The investigation is continuing.

Chautauqua County will continue to have four coroners on call after county lawmakers took emergency action last night to replace two coroners who had resigned from their positions...

The resignations from Warren Riles and Larry Wilcox will take effect today. County Executive George Borrello says without the approval of an emergency resolution, the positions would have been unfilled leaving only two coroners available.

Legislators approved the appointments of Richard Mackowiak and Daniel DiStasio by an 16-2 vote. Legislators Terry Nieble and David Himelein voted against it. An executive session was called by legislators before the vote was taken in open session. Riles has been a long-time coroner, leaving the position after 41-years of service.

A North Carolina man who remained a "person of interest" in the case of a Lakewood woman who went missing more than 20 years ago has died in a car crash in Utah...

Lakewood-Busti Police confirm that 47-year-old Tyrone Bova (Boh-vay) was one of six people involved in a two-vehicle accident a week ago. Bova, along with his current wife, 43-year-old Holly, and one of their sons died in the accident. Tyrone Bova was married to Lori Ceci Bova when she disappeared in mid-1997 after the couple was seen arguing at their home. Lakewood-Busti Police Chief John Bentley says the case of her disappearance, and presumed death is not closed.

Lori Ceci Bova was last seen by others alive the night of June 7, 1997 at the Red Lobster Restaurant in Lakewood. However, her husband was the last person to see her before she went missing. Tyrone Bova told investigators that he and Lori had an argument after leaving the restaurant, and Lori later went for a walk that night... and, has not been seen nor heard from since. There have been no arrests made in the case and, Bentley says -- to this day -- Tyrone Bova cooperated "minimally" with police.

KeyBank is announcing it's support for the new, National Comedy Center which is set to open in early August, during Jamestown's annual Lucille Ball Comedy Festival...

KeyBank Spokesman Matthew Pitts says the $250,000 donation is being made in partnership with the First Niagara Foundation and, will be used to support the new "KeyBank Plaza" in front of the Center on West Second Street.

In a printed release, KeyBanks' Upstate New York Regional Executive Gary Quenneville says the move "perfectly aligns with our mission of helping the communities we serve thrive." Pitts says they've had a long-term relationship with the Comedy Center, including providing "bridge financing" for it's development... and, monitize their long-term grant commitments. Pitts says the Plaza will feature two large high definition video screens, speakers embedded throughout the plaza, and seating areas. Comedy Center Project Chairman Tom Benson says KeyBank has been a "wonder partner" for the project.

The latest figures on the well-being of children show little change in New York, but child advocates fear trouble ahead...

While most indicators remained unchanged or showed improvement, the Annie E. Casey Foundation's 2018 'Kids Count Data Book' shows the Empire State slipped from 30th to 31st in the overall well-being of children. Laura Speer, an associate director at the Foundation, is concerned that including a controversial citizenship question on the 2020 U-S Census will discourage immigrants from participating and lead to an undercount of children, especially in states such as New York with large immigrant populations.

Census figures are used to determine levels of federal support for child-focused programs from school lunches to children's health insurance. The census is intended to count everyone living in the United States, not just citizens. Speer says with more than 14-million children living in poverty nationwide, and almost 850-thousand in New York alone, getting the numbers right is critical because the state receives more than ten-billion-dollars a year in federal funds that support programs for children.

A key Congressional contest for Democrats in the 23rd District will go to "overtime" for a decision...

Tuesday's five-way race was too close to call and, will come down to absentees. Owego's Max Della Pia leads the Democratic primary with 7,022 votes to face incumbant Republican Tom Reed in the general election this Fall. Ithaca's Tracy Mitrano was second with 6,996 votes, a 26-vote difference. Chautauqua County Democratic Elections Commissioner Norm Green says there will be no recount of machines.

Green says there are about 600 absentee ballots out in Chautauqua County but, he doesn't know how many are outstanding district-wide. He expects about 250 of those to be received by the deadline -- next Tuesday. That's the last day a ballot can be received. Finishing a distant third, fourth and fifth in the machine vote were Linda Andrei, Jamestown's Eddie Sundquist and Ithaca's Ian Golden.

The head of incumbant Congressman Tom Reed's re-election campaign says there is "no surprise" that in a field of "liberal options..." that Democrats could not make a definate selection in Tuesday's primary...

Reed's Campaign Manager Nicholas Weinstein says -- quote -- "with their unanimous support for higher taxes, heroin injection sites in our neighborhoods and government-run socialized medicine, these Extreme Ithaca Liberals have clearly demonstrated to the voters that they are out of touch with our values in the Southern Tier, Finger Lakes and Western New York."

The first "special" program of the 2018 Summer Performance Series will take place with "Shakespeare in the Park..." at the Allen Park Bandshell tonight...

The Chautauqua Theatre Company will be putting on two performances of Shakespeare's "As You Like It." The Company's Artistic Associate Sarah Wansley says they're excited to bring the program to the Gorenson Bandshell not once but, twice.

Wansley says eight of thier actors will be part of the approximately 90-minute program. She says they come from the top Graduate Acting programs. City Parks and Recreation Coordinator Julia Ciesla-Hanley says it's part of an exciting line-up this year. The performances also include the Jamestown Municipal Band... which was rained out last night. Ciesla-Hanley says the second performance by the Theatre Company will be held on Wednesday, August 15 and, again it will start at 7 PM. The Theatre Company is under the direction of Andrew Borba.

Polls in New York have closed as voters decide key congressional primaries around the state...

It was "too close to call" in the 23rd Congressional District, but unofficially, Owego's Max Della Pia leads the Democratic primary with 7,022 votes to face incumbant Republican Tom Reed in the general election this Fall. Della Pia is retired from the U-S Air Force and Air Force Reserves. He says he's a strong supporter of federal programs to help combat and intervene with issues in communities such as hunger and the opioid crisis. Not far behind was Ithaca's Tracy Mitrano with 6,996 votes, while retired cardiologist Linda Andrei rounded out the Top 3 with 3,330 votes. The absentee ballots still have yet to be counted. The others contending for the Democratic nomination were Ian Golden and Eddie Sundquist.

The third time has been the charm for President Trump's travel ban on visitor's coming from several, mainly Muslim nations...

Even before yesterday's 5-4 U-S Supreme Court decision, Local Congressman Tom Reed said he felt this version would withstand muster. Reed says he felt this ban was better defined, and fully recognized policies the president can enact and, was not discriminatory.

Reed and other fellow Republicans, say the measure will help stop terrorism. He says it recognizes that there are "threats to American coming from different areas of the world..." and, that American's need to be protected from those threats. The high court's decision is it's first substantive ruling on a Trump administration policy. In addition to Muslim-majority nations like Syria, the ban also includes North Korea and Venezuela. Reed made his comments during his weekly telephone conference call with Southern Tier Media.

The Jamestown City Council has approved the city's 2018 Community Development Block Grant and HOME Program action plans...

The plans -- approved Monday night -- total about $1.48-million and, funds several low and moderate income projects. However, one resident says there is too much money going for administration of the program. Retired Board of Public Utilities manager Doug Champ says the current 20-percent is the maximum you can use. Before Jamestown became an "entitlement community..." Champ says he was involved in the program for the city, and they used about 10-percent.

Council President Marie Carrubba says it appears the city is taking more for administrative costs because they've been cut most of the past several years, so it appears they are taking more for those costs. Champ was also critical of whether lawmakers did their due diligence in holding meetings in their wards about the plan. Carrubba says they do hold several meetings, but adds they often don't get a lot of participation.

A Westfield woman has been arrested on federal charges for allegedly embezzling $227,000 from her employer...

U.S. Attorney James Kennedy, Junior says 40 year-old Alicia Raynor was charged late Tuesday by a criminal complaint. Prosecutors say Raynor was hired as Business Manager for Compassion at Home, Incorporated about six-years ago. She had access between November 2012 and August 2015, to the company's payroll processing service, which was used to deposit pay directly into employee bank accounts. Raynor used the service to divert funds from the company's bank account to accounts she controlled. Compassion at Home fired her in August of 2015, but the president said she continued to divert money to her accounts before being arrested.

Seventeen states, including New York and California, are suing to force the Trump administration to reunite migrant families who have been separated at the U.S.-Mexico border...

The states, all led by Democratic attorneys general, joined Washington, D.C., in filing the lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Seattle Tuesday. It's the first legal challenge by states over the practice. Immigration authorities have separated about 2,300 children from their parents in recent weeks, sparking global outrage as images of weeping children emerged.

Governor Andrew Cuomo says the state will provide free legal services to anyone detained at New York airports on immigration charges...

The Democrat says the move is in response to the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling upholding President Donald Trump's ban on travel from several mostly Muslim countries. Cuomo says lawyers will be available through the Liberty Defense Project, administered by the Office of New Americans. Cuomo created the office in 2013 to help immigrants navigate the naturalization process. The governor referred to the Trump administration's travel ban as religious discrimination camouflaged as national security. The state has set up a new multi-lingual state hotline for people seeking immigration assistance: 800-566-7636. The Liberty Defense Project was created in 2017 as the Trump administration's policies cracked down on immigration.

An event to raise awareness and support for those affected by kidney disease, including living donors and those who need a kidney transplant, will celebrate nine years of helping the community....

That from Southern Tier Kidney Association President Sam Pellerito, who says the 2018 Kidney Challenge Walk takes place on Sunday, July 8.

Pellerito says prior to walk starting, there will be a memorial ceremony called the "Butterfly Release" during which butterflys who were purchased in memory of a loved one will be released about 1:15 p.m., before the walk begins at 1:30. He says the Kidney Association may be one of the first groups in the area to use the newly-opened bridges on the Riverwalk from St. James Church all the way down to Panzarella Point and back. For more information on the 9th annual Kidney Challenge Walk or to donate, call 450-8958. All proceeds benefit Dialysis patients at UPMC Chautauqua WCA Hospital, kidney transplant donors and recipients through the WNY Kidney Connection and, to promote the awareness of kidney disease.

A city woman and a teen-aged boy both face 10 counts each of animal cruelty after a dead dog was found among the ten inside their home on Jamestown's northside last Saturday...

City police were called to the scene at 1101 Prendergast Avenue just before 11:30 p.m. and, found the animal dead. Police Captain Bob Samuelson says they found all 10 dogs living in deplorable conditions and without sustenance. Samuelson says a Necropsy has been ordered to determine the cause of death. He says 40 year-old Christine Emming and the 16 year-old may also face additional charges pending the outcome of the examination of the deceased dog. The other nine animals were taken to a local shelter to be cared for.

The organization representing landlords in the city of Jamestown has come forward and is calling on Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi to once again fill a vacant constable's position in the city...

Frewsburg's Harold Whitford, who owns rental property in Jamestown, spoke at last night's City Council voting session... and urged the mayor to fill the open position with a man who recently re-applied for the post. Whitford says Dan Hill meets Each of those requirements, including having insurance.

Local Attorney Charles Hall represents several landlords as they go through the eviction process and, he says the fact there are only two constables, one who works full-time otherwise, produces a back-log of cases. Hall says the city charter states there "shall be" three constables in the city. However, Teresi says Hill applied two other times and, was found not to meet the residency requirement. He says Hill has submitted a new, updated application to the city. There is also a law enforcement training requirement that must be completed during the first year of being a constable.

It's primary day and, a total of five people will be running in for the Democratic nomination to run for the 23rd Congressional District seat this Fall...

The winner will oppose incumbant Republican Tom Reed. Chautauqua County Elections Commissioner Norm Green says the polls will be open from Noon until 9 p.m.

Besides Democrats, voters from another party will be heading to the polls Tuesday. He says there will be an "Opportunity to Ballot" for the Women's Equality Party... but, Tracy Mitrano is the only person on the ballot. Green says there are 25,000 Democrats in the county who are eligible to vote. Linda Andrei, Tracy Mitrano, Max Della Pia, Ian Golden and Eddie Sundquist are competing for an opportunity to run against incumbent Republican Tom Reed in November.

A motorcycle accident in the village of Silver Creek last weekend sent an Angola man to a Buffalo hospital with serious injuries...

Sheriff's officers say they were called to the scene at Central Avenue and Christy Street about 10:30 last Saturday night. Deputies say they located a motorcycle overturned on it's side. They say 42 year-old Jacob Farabaugh was trying to negotiate a turn on Central Avenue and, lost control of the bike. Officers say Farabaugh was taken to the Erie County Medical Center for treatment of serious injuries. No condition has been released. The investigation is on-going, and charges are pending.

Two Jamestown residents were arrested, including one who gave a fake name during a traffic stop in the city early Sunday morning...

Just before 1:30 a.m., city police pulled over a vehicle on Scioto Street near Barrows Street and, determined the driver, 23 year-old Kylah Seiberg, was operating the vehicle with only a non-drivers I-D and was suspended for failure to pay fines. Officers say the rear passenger, 33 year-old John Kellom, was found to have allegedly given a false name to evade an active arrest warrant. Both Seiberg and Kellom were taken to city jail pending arraignment.

The state Department of Environmental Conservation has awarded the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities a just over $29,000 grant to build a "fast-charging" Electric Vehicle charging station in the city...

Reynolds says this will be the city's fourth charging station, but will be -- by far -- the quickest one to get your electric vehicle, or hybrid, recharged. He compared the recharging of a Chevrolet Volt with the current system as an example. With the other local stations, it can take 2-3 hours to completely recharge a strictly electric car. However, it can be about an hour with the new station, once it's online. Reynolds says the new station will be up and running on or around September 1. He says they have charging stations on Cherry Street, at Jamestown Community College and, at the North Main Street Park and Ride in the town of Ellicott.

A 67-year-old Pennsylvania woman lost her life in a crash that injured four others on Route 20 in the town of Brant Sunday afternoon...

Erie County Sheriff Tim Howard reports that Kathleen Lewis of Volant, Pennsylvania was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash on Route 20 between Route 249 and Hammond Road around 1:30. Lewis' granddaughters were taken to Oishei Children's Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. A man and woman from Kentucky in the second vehicle were transported to ECMC with non-life threatening injuries as well. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

City woman, juvenile, arrested in allegedly animial cruelty case... one of 10 dogs found dead...

A Jamestown woman and a 16 year-old boy face 10 counts each of animal cruelty after a dead dog was found among the 10 found inside their home on the city's northside. City police were called to the scene at 1101 Prendergast Avenue just before 11:30 p.m. last Saturday... and found the animal dead. Police Captain Bob Samuelson says they found all 10 dogs living in deplorable conditions and without sustainance. Samuelson says a Necropsy has been ordered to determine the cause of death. Samuelson says 40 year-old Christine Emming and the 16 year-old may also face additional charges pending the outcome of the examination of the deceased dog. The other nine animals were taken to a local shelter to be cared for.

Jamestown Board of Public Utilities Water Division work today will mean re-routing of traffic beginning at 8 a.m. for approximately 5-6 hours near the corner of North Main Street and Buffalo Street in the City...

BPU Spokeswoman Becky Robbins says while valve replacement on a water main occurs, all southbound traffic on North Main will be redirected between West 21st Street to Buffalo Street. Southbound truck traffic will be rerouted down Fluvanna Avenue to Buffalo Street. Other vehicles will be sent down Fluvanna or up Buffalo Street. The northbound lane on North Main Street will remain open. Robbins says water will be turned off in the area at some point during the project. Once work is completed, the area may see discolored water for 12 to 24 hours.

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that states can force online shoppers to pay state sales tax...

The justices reversed a 1992 decision that a business didn't have to collect sales tax unless it had a physical presence in that state. Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello says forcing on-line shoppers to pay a state sales tax would "level the playing field" with local businesses who have to charge that tax.

Borrello says if New York state adopts a measure that would require a sales tax online, it would help reduce local property taxes. He feels such a law will be adopted in the state, but not until 2019 at the earliest, with this year's legislative session having wrapped up this week.

The nine-week Summer Season at Chautauqua Institution got underway with rain falling at times, but it held off for some of the bigger events last weekend...

That from Chautauqua Spokesman Jordan Steves... who says they got a break in the weather Friday night for the concert featuring Grammy Award-winner Alison Krauss. Steves adds the weather was also okay for the official "Three-Taps of the Gavel" opening speech Sunday morning in the amphitheater.

Today... Steves says the weekly lecture series begins with featured presentations by a number of renowned guests. He says today's lecturer, American Author John Irving, will be interviewed by New York Times Book Review Editor Pamela Paul. In addition to Irving, Steves says National Book Foundation Executive Director Lisa Lucas will also appear as part of "The Life of the Written Word" Week at Chautauqua.

Two Mayville residents have been arrested for allegedly breaking into a home on Valley Street in the village and, being in possession of illegal drugs...

Sheriff's officers say they were called to the scene shortly before 9 p.m. last Thursday and, found 28 year-old Eric Courtier, and 21 year-old Page Zenns inside the residence, and found they had allegedly damaged property there. Deputies also found the pair in possession of heroin and methamphetamine. Both Courtier and Zenns were charged with second-degree burglary, fourth-degree criminal mischief and, two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance. Both were arraigned in Chautauqua Town Court and, sent to the county jail on $50,000 cash bail each.

Republican candidate for governor Marc Molinaro says if elected he'll reform what he called the state's "failing and bloated" economic development programs that cost New York taxpayers billions of dollars annually...

The Dutchess County executive said during a Friday news conference down the hall from Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo's Capitol office that handing cash in the form of state grants to privately owned corporations needs to stop. Molinaro says if he wins in November he'll ban companies that contribute to New York political campaigns from receiving state tax breaks or other taxpayer-funded corporate subsidies.

The state legislature's 2018 session ended with a whimper, but that's not all bad for the organization representing school boards across New York...

That from state School Boards Assocation Executive Director Tim Kreamer, who says there was no final action on legislation to change teacher evaluations. Kreamer says the leadership in the Republican-controlled Senate and Democrat-controlled Assembly leadership were unable to agree on similar measures.

Kreamer says they support evaluation reforms but, they should not include cumbersom new collective bargaining requirement, and "sweetners" for charter schools. Kreamer says they were pleased to have a couple of measures dealing with BOCES across the state. He says the main one eliminates a district's contribution to a BOCES capital project from the property tax cap equation. He says that will incentivize those district's to contribute to those projects. In addition, Kreamer says the legislature did agree to raise the salary cap for BOCES District superintendents, something that's been a long-standing priority for the School Board's Association.

There's lots of uncertainty over the future of the NRG repowering project, but the organization that oversees New York's power grid wants to clear the air about the costs surrounding the project's interconnection charge...

NRG had indicated that the charge could reach over $100-million. We have now heard from the New York Independent System Operator. Executive Vice President Rich Dewey says the interconnection costs depend on how many projects move forward. Dewey says right now, there are 27 projects under consideration.

Those costs do not include additional costs for the Pennsylvania system. Dewey says one of the organization's main concerns is the reliability of the system and, he says the NYISO is responsible for that. He says when new producers or generators come on line, they need to ensure it's reliability. Dewey indicated that a final decision on which projects move forward is expected to be made later this year.

A New York Republican who's one of two World War-Two veterans believed to be still serving in a state legislature has bid farewell to fellow lawmakers...

Senator William J. "Bill" Larkin, Junior cast what are likely his final Senate votes earlier this week as the Legislature wrapped up its 2018 session. The 90-year-old Larkin served in the Assembly from 1979 to 1990 before winning the first of 20 two-year terms representing a section of the Hudson Valley. The Troy, New York, native's political career followed a 23-year career in the U.S. Army.

Community Bank robber caught after trying to rob Kwik Fill in Jamestown of money...

A Jamestown-area man is jailed without bail for allegedly holding up the bank near Falconer Thursday afternoon... then committing another on the city's southside Thursday night. City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says officers were called to the Kwik Fill station at 342 Forest Avenue just after 11:30 p.m. for an alleged hold up. Samuelson says the suspect -- 34 year-old Albert Chapman -- entered the store, pulled a knife and demanded money. However... he says Chapman wound up fleeing the store empty-handed. Samuelson says they are also looking for the driver of an SUV that may have helped drive Chapman to and from the robbery at the Community Bank at 1982 East Main St. in the town of Ellicott -- just east of Falconer. He says the accomplice was allegedly driving a darker-colored SUV. Samuelson says... if you have any information on the vehicle or the driver... call Ellicott Town Police at 665-7083. He says you can also call the JPD tips line at 483-TIPS, that's 483-8477. You can also contact their Tips 4-1-1 app. Samuelson says Chapman is a known drug-addict... and, was trying to get money to support his use of crystal methamphetimine. He was arraigned on charges including first and third-degree robbery.

Three arrested for trespassing, drug possession, in town of Pomfret...

Three people accused of trepassing on property in the town of Pomfret earlier this week are also accused of using the location to make Methamphetime. Sheriff's deputies and members of the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force were called to the scene at 5251 Webster Rd. about 11 p.m. Wednesday... and, found the trio. Officers say they also found items used to produce meth while arresting 29 year-old Tyler Jaynes of Cherry Creek... and, 40 year-old Jessica Rumsey, and, 25 year-old Andrew Lindstrom of Fredonia. All three were charged with one count each of second-degree criminal trespassing... and, third-degree unlawful manufacturing of Methamphetime. They were all arraigned... and, sent to the county jail on $15,000 to $20,000 cash bail each. The State Police C-SERT Team was also called in to help clean-up contamination at the Webster Road address. If you have any information on suspicious or drug-related actvities... you are asked to call the Task Force at 1-800-344-8702.

The past year has been a "great" one for UPMC Chautauqua WCA Hospital in Jamestown... which celebrated it's success at it's annual "Meeting of the Corporations" Thursday. WCA President Betsy Wright high-lighted many of those accomplishments during the 23rd annual gathering. She spotlighted the breaking of ground for the new, $20-million dollar, 44-thousand square foot facility... which is on target for opening about a year from now. Wright says the project has been on-time, and on-budget so far. She says contractors recently closed in the structure... and, work on the interior is moving forward. In addition... she says the other big item is the fact the hospital -- again the past year -- finished with a "positive" bottom line. She attributed that to three things... the first being their new affiliation with the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. She adds they've also been able to recruit several new physicians... and, that helped boost their volume by 6-percent.

Church clock-tower in Fredonia now removed...

It took several days, but demolition crews have completed the task of removing the clock tower from atop the Family Church building in downtown Fredonia. Associate Pastor Scott Wise says the contractor was able to finish the removal work on Thursday and is now working on installing temporary roofing. Wise says the contractor involved noted that there are still some interior parts that still need to be removed. Once the roof is in place... Wise says work can begin making permanent repairs. He says they will be working with their architects and engineers on what needs to be replaced. Flames heavily damaged the clock tower on May 4th.

The Buffalo Sabres have selected defenseman Rasmus Dahlin with the first overall pick in the NHL draft, giving them a dynamic player who should spark their rebuilding process. Dahlin is the second Swedish player to be taken No. 1 and the first since Mats Sundin in 1989. The smooth-skating playmaker has been considered the consensus first pick for more than a year. After putting on a Sabres jersey Friday night, the 18-year-old will jump to the NHL right away and should help the club's league-worst offense that contributed to its last-place finish. He had six assists in seven games at the world junior championships in Buffalo and put up 20 points in 41 games in Sweden's top pro league this season.

Local man arrested after second attempted robbery for Ellicott bank robbery Thursday...

A local man accused of holding up a bank near Falconer has been arrested after allegedly trying to rob a convenience store last night on Jamestown's southside. City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says officers were called to the Kwik Fill service station at 342 Forest Avenue just after 11:30 p.m. Thursday. Samuelson says 34 year-old Albert Chapman entered the store, pulled a knife and demanded cash from the register. He ended up fleeing without any cash or proceeds... but, he was arrested. He says city police and Ellicott Town officers were able -- though investigation -- to also link Chapman to the robbery at the Community Bank at 1982 East Main St. -- east of Falconer. Chapman has been charged with first and third-degree robbery... and, third degree criminal possession of a weapon. Samuelson adds that police are now looking for a darker colored Sports Utility Vehicle, and the driver because they believe that person and SUV helped Chapman arrive at, and flee the scene in Falconer. If you have any information on the SUV and or the person, contact Ellicott Town Police at 665-7083. Samuelson says you can also call the JPD tips line at 483-TIPS, that's 483-8477. You can also contact their Tips 4-1-1 app.

Police in the city of Jamestown and town of Ellicott are asking for the public's help in tracking down the man who allegedly walked into the Community Bank -- just east of Falconer -- and robbing it...

City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says police were called to the scene at 1982 East Main Street in Ellicott a few minutes before 12 Noon Thursday but, say the bandit had fled the scene. However, he says suveillance camera's caught the man in the act, location and, demanded money from a teller.

Samuelson says the man, who had dark-colored facial hair, gave a teller a note, and did not show any kind of weapon. In the suveillance photo, the suspect was wearing a dark, horizontal-striped polo shirt and, striped pants. Samuelson says the man's picture is on all their platforms including their Facebook page. If you have any information on the robber, he says contact Ellicott Police at 665-7083 or call the JPD Tips-line is 483-TIPS, that's 483-8477. You can also use the Tips 4-1-1 app. Samuelson says they've already received a number tips so far.

A city man faces at least 20 years in prison after admitting in a federal court in Buffalo to conspiracy to distribute large quantities of illegal drugs in the area...

U-S Attorney James Kennedy, Junior announced late Thursday that 36 year-old Juan Pacheco, Junior pled guilty to conspiring to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and marijuana. Prosecutors say Pacheco was receiving large quantities of cocaine and meth from California that were smuggled into the U-S from Mexico. He would then distribute them locally from a stash house at 477 Main Street. Police and drug agents raided the home in August of 2016 and, arrested Pacheco and seized signifcant amounts of cocaine, meth., and marihuana.

The Jamestown High School class of 2018 will approach a key milestone in their lives tonight...

McElrath says this year's Valedictorian and Salutatorian are just two of 305 students who will turn their tassles in celebration of their high school graduation. He says the Valedictorian is Andrew Pumford, who will be attending Vanderbilt University in the Fall. McElrath adds that Salutatorian Alisha Rensel, who is going to Penn State-Behrend near Erie. This year's commencement speaker is Cyber Security Researcher Terrance DeJesus, a 2012 Jamestown graduate.

New York state lawmakers have wrapped up an annual session marked by gridlock and missed opportunities...

The Legislature adjourned Thursday morning after failing to renew New York City's school zone speed camera program. Proposals to improve school security also fell flat. The final days mirrored the session. Proposals to authorize sports betting, eliminate cash bail, reform antiquated election laws and improve school security were introduced but never approved. Bills to make it easier to prosecute sex traffickers passed, as did a new tax on opioids and a requirement that law enforcement retain rape kits for 20 years.

The fifth candidate for the Democratic nomination to run for the 23rd District Congressional seat this Fall says it's time to return to the days of the "humble servant politician"...

Ithaca's Ian Golden says that's why he got into the race for the nomination to run against incumbant Republican Tom Reed this Fall. During the Chautauqua County Democratic Party's annual dinner... Golden also said it's because the policies of the past seven years haven't helped the western Southern Tier.

The "Bill" Ian Golden was referencing is retired state Assemblyman Bill Parment who was keynote speaker for the event at Chautauqua. He says the economy, jobs and education are the key issues he's most passionate about and, he also said he supports single-payer health care and Medicare for all. Golden said he will push to make economies more local and fair.

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Media One Group news has high-lighted all five candidates seeking the Democratic nomination for Congress during next Tuesday's primary in the 23rd District. In addition to Golden the candidates are Eddie Sundquist, Linda Andrei, Tracy Mitrano and, Max Della Pia.

A Summer full of free activities and personal enrichment is being made available again this year through the city of Jamestown's annual Summer Playground Program...

That from Parks and Recreation Coordinator Julia Ciesla-Hanley, who says the program begins for children ages 5 to 13 years-old. Ciesla-Hanley says they'll again be at five locations: Fletcher, Lincoln, and Ring Elementary Schools, Allen Park and, the Lillian Dickson Tot Lot. She says lunch will again be free for all kids this year.

The Playground program was announced at the Fletcher School playground Thursday afternoon, along with the new Playground Program Recreation Leader. It's former Recreation Attendant Amelia Dolce, who is the daughter of City Councilman Tony Dolce. She says it's "exciting" to play a bigger role in the planning this year, which includes a Nature Day Field Trip to Allen Park and, the Summer Reading Program at the Prendergast Library. The program runs at all sites each day -- Monday through Friday -- from 11 a.m. to 5p.m.. The program runs through August 3. For more information, call 483-7523.

There is free legal advice to Jamestown-area residents the third Thursday of each month for people that are dealing with financial issues, including debt...

Spokeswoman and Paralegal Carol Joyce with the Western New York Law Center says representatives were at Chautauqua Opportunities, Incoporated at 402 Chandler Street for three hours yesterday offering their advice on a number of legal matters surrounding their finances.

Joyce says they can also help people understand their free credit reports, as well as address problems with creditors seeking payment on something the holder could be unaware of, including charges you were not aware of getting rung up on your credit card. Joyce says there are no income eligibility requirements to receive their services. The people working with the Law Center to provide the service are from the Civil Legal Advice and Resource Office in Buffalo. For more information, call Carol Joyce at 828-8414.

Jamestown, Ellicott Town Police looking for suspect in Community Bank robbery -- east of Falconer...

Jamestown police are helping Ellicott town police to investigate an alleged bank robbery -- near Falconer -- that occured just before 12 Noon today. City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says a man walked into the 1982 East Main Street location... and, demanded money from a teller. Samuelson says the bandit was a white male... who had dark-colored facial hair... who walked into the Community Bank -- just east of the village -- and handed the teller a note. No weapon was shown. In a surveillance photo... the man was wearing a dark-horizontal Striped polo shirt... and, striped pants. Samuelson says the man's picture is on all their platforms including their Facebook page. He says you can contact them or Ellicott Police if you have any information. The number for Ellicott is 665-7083... while the JPD Tips-line number is 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477. Samuelson says they've already received a number tips... and, other leads in the case. Police say all calls will be kept confidential.

A Chautauqua County man is in stable condition at an Erie, Pennsylvania hospital after his motorcycle crashed on Route 430 in the town of Ellery early yesterday morning...

Sheriff Joe Gerace says a deputy saw the 30 year-old man speeding about 12:30 a.m., and began a pursuit. Deputies later found the crash after coming across the debris field in roadway. Gerace says the victim, who was not identified, was flown by Starflight Helicopter to UPMC Hamot Medical Center. The cause remains under investigation.

A Chautauqua County Sheriff's deputy is being credited with saving the lives of two overdose victims Tuesday evening by using Narcan...

Gerace says the overdoses -- involving a 26-year-old male and a 23-year-old female -- were reported around 7 p.m. at a residence in the village of Mayville. He says the officer was able to revive both victims, which he attributes to the officer's training Gerace adds they have had to respond to such instances more often than they would like. Both individuals responded to the naloxone and were transported to Westfield Memorial by EMS personnel from Chautauqua and Mayville Fire.

A Jamestown man faces up to 20-years in prison and a 250-thousand dollar fine after pleading guilty to possession of child pornography...

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Cantil -- who is handling the case -- says 36 year-old Steven Fetterman was found last November with over 1,720 videos and 13,838 images of child porn. Cantil says the files included minors under the age of 12, as well as depictions of violence. Prosecutors say Fetterman also engaged in a pattern of sexual abuse or exploitation of a minor. The plea is the result of an investigation by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Kelly. Sentencing is scheduled for October 30 before Judge Lawrence Vilardo in U-S District Court.

One of the candidates for the Democratic nomination to run for the 23rd District Congressional Seat this Fall is a retired doctor...

Ithaca's Linda Andrei is a retired Cardiologist, who believes it's time to send a doctor to Washington. Health care, and the need for a single-payer system is one of her key issues. However, she says she's also up on the other major issues facing the "working people" of the Southern Tier and, is ready to voice their concerns in Washington.

In addition to Medicare, she says the other big institutions under the gun are preserving Social Security, and public education. She says she'll be an independent voice in Washington. The primary is next Tuesday, June 26.

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Each day this week, Media One Group News is high-lighting one of the five candidates seeking the Democratic endorsement to run for the 23rd Congressional District against Tom Reed. The others are Tracy Mitrano, Max Della Pia, Ian Golden, and Eddie Sundquist.

The New York Legislature has adjourned for the year without much to show for it...

The Senate adjourned early Thursday morning, three hours after the Assembly. The work ended without a deal to renew the state law authorizing school zone cameras in New York City, meaning the 140 devices now active in the city will have to come down. Lawmakers also failed to reach a compromise on bills to overhaul teacher evaluations and address school security. The session's final day was much like the preceding six months. Lawmakers proposed, but did not act, on bills to authorize sports gambling, eliminate cash bail for most offenses and address Albany's chronic corruption problem. Lawmakers aren't scheduled to reconvene until January, after a new Legislature is elected this November.

A prosecutor said greed led a former New York state Senate leader to pressure companies that relied on state legislation to funnel over $300,000 to his adult son...

But lawyers for ex-Senate leader Dean Skelos and his son Adam said during opening statements Wednesday in Manhattan federal court that the defendants did nothing illegal. The men were convicted in 2015 of extortion, conspiracy and bribery. Dean Skelos, a 70-year-old Republican, was sentenced to five years in prison. His son got 61/2 years. But neither served time.

Due to the rainy weather, the Jamestown City Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department postponed last night's Summer Bandshell Performance featuring Pearl City Jazz at Allen Park...

Parks and Recreation Coordinator Julia Ciesla-Hanley says the concert has been moved to tonight, June 21, at 7 p.m. at the Goranson Bandshell.

I'm Terry Frank in the Media One Newsroom. Due to the rainy weather... the Jamestown City Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department has postponed tonight's Summer Bandshell Performance featuring Pearl City Jazz at Allen Park. Parks and Recreation Coordinator Julia Ciesla-Hanley says the concert has been moved to tomorrow night, June 21, at 7 p.m. at the Goranson Bandshell.

Sixteen people -- all but three from Jamestown -- are jailed for allegedly trafficking methamphetime initially brought in through Mexico the past several months...

Chief of the Criminal division of the U-S Attorney's Office, Joseph Karaszewski, says eight people were arrested during three raids Tuesday morning as part of "Operation Melt Down." Karaszewski says they are accused of conspiracy to traffic and, distribute 50-grams or more of Meth. He calls the arrests "significant".

Karaszewski says Hare is from Randolph, the other seven from Jamestown. He says the two leaders of the operation, Jamell Trapp and Marcus Bowman of Fredonia... were arrested Monday during a sting operation involving the U-S Postal System. Both face several major charges, including possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Karaszewski says agents had intercepted a package containing "high-grade" Meth from Southern California. He says the other six were arrested on State Search warrants. He says all sixteen are jailed pending further court action.

A north county woman who was convicted on a weapons charge in connection with a homicide last year in Dunkirk is headed to prison...

Chautauqua County District Attorney Patrick Swanson says 29-year-old Rebecca Ruiz was given a determinate sentence of six years in state prison, plus five years post-release supervision on one count of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

Swanson says while he would've liked to see Ruiz get the maximum 15-year sentence, he says he's not dissatisfied with the sentence that Judge Dave Foley handed her on Tuesday. He says Ruiz received a violent felony conviction, which he says was a positive. Swanson says 21-year-old Julian Duman was shot and killed at a home on Lake Shore Drive East in Dunkirk last July. In March, a jury found Ruiz not guilty on other charges in that case, including second-degree murder and tampering with evidence.

The clean-up is continuing after a line of severe thunderstorms raced across portions of Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties early Monday night, downing several trees and power lines across the area...

The National Weather Service reported a 43 mile-per-hour wind gust near Dunkirk. The same storms caused a tree to fall on a house on Willard Street here in Jamestown. However, Forecaster Aaron Reynolds in Buffalo says it's now much drier and cooler than Monday. Reynolds says Monday's severe, 15-minute storm was ahead of a strong cold front that dropped the temperature about 10-degrees. Electric Division workers for the Board of Public Utilities spent much of Monday night working in some areas because of tree and pole damage from the storm.

Over a hundred people gathered for a candlelight vigil Tuesday night at Veterans Park on Jamestown's west side...

The 'Vigil for the Children' was to protest the separation of parents and children at U.S. border points. Susan Meara of the group 'Chautauqua Progressive Action' organized the event. She said it was not a political or partisan issue, but one of American 'value and decency.' She added, the policy has reached a new intensity, even separating famlies with credible asylum claims. A number of people carried signs saying 'families belong together' and 'what kind of country do we live in?' Several people spoke extemporaneously, including one who asked, "Is this beoming Nazi Germany. Are we putting numbers on children?"

Local Congressman Tom Reed is throwing his support behind the more "moderate" of two immigration bills in the House of Representatives...

The Corning Republican today said he supports what's being called the "Ryan Bill" over a measure proposed by House Judiciary Committee Chairman Robert Goodlatte of Virginia. Reed says the Ryan Bill deals includes relief for DACA recipients and, deals with the current issue regarding children being separated from parents at the border.

Reed says Republicans are working to shore-up support for the Ryan bill in the House, where the 30-member "Freedom Caucus" opposes a path to citizenship for DACA recipients. However, he says they need about 10 more votes in the Senate for the bill to get through that chamber.

One of the five Democratic candidates running for the nomination to run against incumbant Republican Congressman Tom Reed has military experience...

Owego's Max Della Pia says he decided to run after attending a Town Hall meeting hosted by Reed and, felt someone needed to run against him. While there has been some question about his affiliation, Della Pia says he is very much a Democrat and, in fact worked as a legislative liason for one in Congress.

While he's retired from the U-S Air Force and, Air Force Reserves. He says he's fairly "moderate" on issues. Della Pia says he's a strong supporter of federal programs to help combat and intervene with issues in communities such as hunger and the opioid crisis. On issues like international trade, Della Pia, who has a background in economics, advocates for the government to be tough on nations like China and Vietnam who may be producing goods using exploited labor. The 23rd District Congressional Democratic Primary is Tuesday, June 26.

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Each day this week, Media One Group News is high-lighting one of the five candidates seeking the Democratic endorsement to run for the 23rd Congressional District against Tom Reed. The others are Tracy Mitrano, Max Della Pia, Ian Golden, and Eddie Sundquist.

Time is running out for action on some state bills important for New Yorkers with disabilities...

The legislative session ends on Wednesday, but some bills that would help people with disabilities have yet to come up for a vote. Susan Dooha, who heads the Center for Independence of the Disabled New York, says housing issues are at the top of the list. New York City has passed a law prohibiting source of income discrimination in housing. Now, Dooha says, it's time for the state to act.

Bill "A-10610" has the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo, but it hasn't had a vote on the floor of the State Assembly and the State Senate has yet to take up the issue. Dooha says another challenge will be getting a state law encouraging the development of new housing with first floor apartments that are affordable and accessible to people with disabilities. She says lack of accessible housing statewide has led to homelessness and the unnecessary institutionalization of people with disabilities who could be living independently.

Proposals to overhaul teacher regulations and add more school zone speed cameras in New York City are on the table as New York state lawmakers enter the final days of the legislative session...

The Senate and Assembly hope to adjourn for the year later today. High-profile proposals to extend the statute of limitations for child molestation, crack down on government corruption and eliminate cash bail in criminal cases aren't expected to get votes before lawmakers head home.

The three school budgets in Chautauqua County that were rejected by voters last month will be voted on today, two of them with changes to them...

School officials in Clymer say their 2018-19 budget passed. Superintendent Ed Bailey says this budget only has a four-percent increase, which is under the state property tax cap. The budget in Westfield includes a 1.5-percent increase and, was passed by a large margin-- 581 in favor to 267 against. The same budget was up for a vote in Ripley, which was defeated 106-YES and 264-NO.

Sixteen people have been arrested for allegedly trafficking about $300,000 worth of methamphetime intially brought in through Mexico over the past several months. That from Chief of the Criminal division of the U-S Attorney's Office, Joseph Karaszewski... who says 10 of them face federal drug trafficking charges following three raids that took place on Tuesday as part of "Operation Melt Down." Karaszewski says there were three federal raids -- two in Jamestown and one in Randolph. He adds there were also six state warrants executed during the operation. Karaszewski says the eight people arrested on federal charges Monday face charges including conspiracy to traffic... and, distribute 50 grams or more of Meth. He says the two leaders of the operation... Jamell Trapp and Marcus Bowman of Fredonia... were arrested Monday during a sting operation involving the U-S Postal System. Both face several major charges... including possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Karaszewski says agents intercepted a package containing "high-grade" Meth from Southern California. He says all 16 are jailed pending further court action. Karaszewski says they began investigating the matter last November.

Jamestown firefighters were hard at work battling flames at a two-story, wood-frame house early this morning...

City Fire Batallion Chief Sam Salemme says the call came in at 1:30 a.m. for a fire at 2 Vega Street. He says on firefighters' arrival, had significant fire on the first-floor that had self-vented out the front door and on the southside of house in two windows.

Salemme says the property received significant fire damage, but a mother and infant daughter living there were not at home at the time of the fire. He adds the local Red Cross was called in to assist and no injuries were reported. The cause remains under investigation.

The on-going negotiations on new water and sewer agreements between the city of Jamestown and the town of Ellicott were brought into the open during last night's City Council work session...

At-large Councilman Andy Liuzzo expressed concern over whether the city was negotiating in good faith after changes were made to a proposal last Spring. Liuzzo says he was blind-sided by the response from the town in a closed-packet he received from the city clerk. Acting Council President Tony Dolce admonished Liuzzo for making the proposal public.

An angry Mayor Sam Teresi accused Liuzzo of trying to "blow up" the process by grand-standing during an open meeting about a matter that is still being negotiated. Teresi says the two proposals were strictly that, adding that the Board of Public Utilities -- which must first ratify any agreement -- hasn't even received a final proposal to vote on yet. Once the nine-member BPU does that, then it moves onto the City Council for final action.

A new report is revealing which New York counties have the highest rates of gun-related suicide and homicide and, one of them is just east of Chautauqua County...

The analysis looked at the rate of homicide and suicide in each county from 2012 to 2016 and found the highest rates in the rural upstate counties of Cattaraugus, Delaware, Allegany, Wyoming, and Sullivan. Erie County, which includes the city of Buffalo, had the highest gun homicide rate. The report was published Monday by a coalition of law enforcement officials, public health experts and elected officials who support a proposal to allow teachers and parents to petition a judge to remove guns from the homes of troubled students. The bill's co-sponsor, Democratic Senator Brian Kavanagh of Manhattan, says the report shows gun deaths are a statewide problem that demands attention.

A local man is under arrest following a domestic incident involving a child at the Park and Ride on Route 60 in the town of Ellicott over the weekend...

Ellicott Police report 32 year-old Joshua Brown allegedly engaged in a verbal altercation with an unknown female victim shortly after 6 p.m. last Friday. While the victim was attempting to take their one year-old child from the vehicle, officers say Brown pulled the vehicle forward, ran over the victim's foot and, struck the victim and child with the car's door. Brown then fled the scene, before being arrested with the help of Sheriff's officers. He was taken to county jail and charged with second-degree harrassment, reckless endangerment and endangering the welfare of a child.

The count-down is on for the beginning of August when three major events all take place at about the same time and, thousands of people are expected in the Jamestown...

August 1 will feature the grand opening of the National Comedy Center, and the start of the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival in the downtown area. There's also the start of the 16-to-18 year-old Babe Ruth World Series, with teams arriving on Thursday, August 2. Gebbie Foundation and Center City Development Corporation Director Greg Edwards says they're in a "sprint now" to those events.

However, the new Double-Tree by Hilton, and Celoron Harborfront hotels won't be open by that time. Edwards and Mayor Sam Teresi agree it's a "great problem" to have and believe they'll be ready for the influx. In the past, the city has worked with hotels as far away as Warren and Erie, Pennsylvania and others, to accomodate people coming in for Summer events.

There are two women seeking the Democratic nomination to run in the General Election against incumbant 23rd District Congressman Tom Reed...

One of them has already received the backing of the Working Families Party and Women's Equality Party. Ithaca's Tracy Mitrano is originally from Rochester and, spent some time working in Buffalo. Mitrano also taught the Internet and cyber-security at Cornell. She says the two main issues for her are affordable health care, and putting public education first.

Mitrano says that and, the area's abundant beauty and resource, will draw people here. She says it's important to focus more on "working people and families," and bringing them back to the region. Mitrano has won all five 2018 Democratic straw polls by sizeable margins. She has also drawn several attacks from her opponents, challenging her residency, and stance on certain issues. The 23rd District Congressional Democratic Primary is a week from today, Tuesday, June 26.

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Each day this week, Media One Group News is high-lighting one of the five candidates seeking the Democratic endorsement to run for the 23rd Congressional District against Tom Reed. The others are Linda Andrei, Max Della Pia, Ian Golden, and Eddie Sundquist.

Demolition work got underway yesterday morning on the fire-damaged clocktower in downtown Fredonia...

Family Church of Fredonia Associate Pastor Scott Wise said Monday that the goal was to get the work completed in one day, then begin work on a temporary roof structure. Temple Street has been closed from Lambert Avenue to Church Street until the work is completed. The clock tower was severely damaged in a fire that occurred on May 4.

Chautauqua County's retired Director of Emergency Services is the new president of the New York State Association of Fire Chiefs...

Fredonia's Julius Leone, Junior was elected to the post during the Association's annual conference in Turning Stone last weekend. Leone was director of the Department of Emergency Services for 15 years before retiring last year. Leone has been a long-time member of the Fredonia Fire Department and, has served a couple of stints as it's chief.

A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly shoving another man into a door, and threatening him last weekend...

City police say they were called to the scene on Beverly Place about 11:30 Saturday night on a report of a domestic incident. They found that 45 year-old Richard Becker, Senior had threatened the 21 year-old victim and, violated an order of protection issued out of city court. Officers arrested Becker for first-degree criminal contempt and, took him to the city jail pending arraignment.

State Police are continuing their investigation into a crash involving a Sports Utility Vehicle, and a motorcycle on Route 83 near Farrington Hollow Road in the town of Arkwright...

Troopers say the accident occurred around 3 p.m. last Thursday. Police in Fredonia say the SUV was apparently backing into a driveway and the motorcyclist couldn't avoid the collision. The motorcyclist, who was not identified, was flown by Starflight to to the Erie County Medical Center with a possible broken arm and concussion. No other details are available.

Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello has announced that the county has joined a group that aims to save money and energy for businesses and non-profits in the county...

In the joint announcement with the Energy Improvement Corporation, Borrello says the county will become the first in Western New York to join EIC's Energize NY Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) finance program. Borrello says the move can not only help existing business in the county, but can also help bring in new businesses though a new tool that allows them to being a "better and more efficient company." The Energy Improvement Corporation's board voted unanimously this week to accept Chautauqua County into the program.

The New York state Assembly has again endorsed a single-payer universal health care system...

The Democrat-led chamber passed the measure late last week for the fourth year in a row. Passage of the legislation is largely symbolic, however. The Republican-led Senate is not expected to take up the measure before lawmakers adjourn for the year on Wednesday. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie says Democrats in his chamber believe all Americans deserve a health care system that guarantees coverage for all. The proposal would allow all New Yorkers to enroll for health coverage that comes with no network restrictions, deductibles or co-pays. The system would use state and local funds that now go to Medicaid and other health care programs.

In New York state government news, lawmakers are wrapping up the 2018 session with a long list of measures still up for debate....

Proposals to authorize and regulate sports betting at casinos and on mobile devices are a top issue. Casino owners are urging lawmakers to act soon to catch up to states like New Jersey, which began offering wagers on athletic events Thursday. On school safety, Republicans want more armed school security guards while Democrats favor allowing teachers and parents to ask a judge to confiscate firearms from the homes of troubled students. Bills to overhaul teacher evaluations, eliminate cash bail in most criminal cases and extend the statute of limitations for child molestation will also get a final push. The Senate and Assembly are scheduled to adjourn Wednesday.

One of the five Democratic candidates seeking the nomination to run against Republican Congressman Tom Reed in the upcoming primary is from Jamestown...

Attorney Eddie Sundquist has been endorsed by the county's Democratic Committee for the endorsement. During last week's annual Democratic Party Dinner in Mayville, Sundquist thanked the committee and, says he will always remember the county and it's residents.

Sundquist says Reed "doesn't care about Chautauqua County, and hasn't for the past seven years." The 29 year-old Democrat was a science teacher in Philadelphia when he decided to return to the area. He was Salutatorian for the Jamestown High School Class of 2007. Sundquist says he roots his philosophy in what he sees as best for the "average working class constituent" in the 23rd Congressional District. He's a supporter of single-payer healthcare systems, a strong believer in climate change and a defender of public schools.

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Each day this week, Media One Group news will be high-lighting one of the five candidates seeking the Democratic endorsement to run for the 23rd Congressional District against Tom Reed. The others are Tracy Mitrano, Linda Andrei, Max Della Pia, and Ian Golden.

The Republican leader of the state Senate is accusing Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo of playing politics with school security...

Senator John Flanagan says Cuomo isn't seriously considering the Senate's proposal to increase funding for school security upgrades and armed security officers. The Long Island lawmaker says Cuomo is instead attacking Republicans for not backing his own proposals, saying he is "extraordinarily disdainful" of anyone who disagrees with him. Cuomo has blamed Republicans in Washington and Albany for blocking efforts to respond to school shootings.

A former top official in the New York Democratic Party is kicking off an independent run for governor...

Stephanie Miner, who's the ex-mayor of Syracuse, made her announcement in an interview with The New York Times. Polls show Governor Andrew Cuomo with comfortable leads over actress Cynthia Nixon in the Democratic primary and Republican Dutchess County executive Marcus J. Molinaro in a general election matchup. The Times reports Monday that the governor may now face a four-way race in November. Nixon has already won the nomination of the Working Families Party, meaning she could stay on the ballot in the general election.

The Jamestown Board of Education is holding a Special Meeting tonight at 6 p.m. in the Superintendent's Conference Room on Martin Road...

Members will call roll prior to going into Executive Session regarding Personnel Matters. In other news, Jamestown High School has announced its Graduation Commencement Ceremony will be held this Friday, June 22 at 7 p.m. in the Chautauqua Institution Ampitheater. The JHS Baccalaureate will be held Thursday evening at 7 p.m. in SS Peter and Paul Church.

Get ready for some real summer-like heat and humid coming to the region this weekend... especially on Father's Day. Forecasters say temperatures will reach the 80s away from Lake Erie today and everyone will see the mid to upper 80s on Sunday. Meteorologist Jim Mitchell of the National Weather Service says today will be the better of the two days for outdoor work. Sunday could get kind of unbearable. Mitchell adds, though, that the "real feel" will be into the 90s due to the arrival of some humidity. There is a also chance of showers and thunderstorms developing on Sunday... and, Mitchell says that could lead to a slight risk of flash flooding due to heavy downpours in some isolated areas. While it will seem hot on Sunday... he says the 93 degree record high set in 1953 is not in danger of being shattered.

Two city men indicted by federal grand jury on drug and weapons charges...

Two Jamestown-area men have been indicted by a federal grand jury on drug and firearms charges following a raid earlier this year. U-S Attorney James Kennedy, Jr. says 27 year-old Tyler Craig Anderson... and, 26 year-old Robert Lincoln... are charged with conspiracy to make false statements to purchase firearms. In addition... he says Anderson is charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana, maintaining a drug-involved premises, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. Prosecutors say Ellicott Police received complaints of suspected drug dealing at Anderson's Willard Street Extension home. They later conducted undercover purchases... and, also learned that Anderson had several guns. The raid was conducted in March... and police found cocaine, marijuana, and 14 firearms. Kennedy says Lincoln is accused of buying at least three of the guns for Anderson.

The voice of a giant in Chautauqua County politics has been silenced... but, he won't soon be forgotten. Long-time Chautauqua County Legislator Joe Trusso of Jamestown passed away Thursday afternoon at the age of 86. He was initially a member of the county's old Board of Supervisors, and was later elected to the legislature... and, chaired a number of committees. Trusso spend nearly four decades as a county lawmaker. He was good friends with late Legislator Tony Teresi... father of Mayor Sam Teresi. Sam Teresi called Trusso a "great public servant." Teresi says he could tell stories about Joe Trusso that could fill an entire day. However... he says Trusso was "kind hearted... loved his church, loved his country... and, loved politics. Not just the sport of politics, but, as a vehicle to do good for people in the community." Funeral arrangments for Joe Trusso are being handled by the Lind Funeral Home in Jamestown.

Borrello disappointed that Chautauqua County will not be receiving $20-million government efficiency grant...

Chautauqua County reached the top six last year... but, Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced that a Suffolk County town was the winner of the first Municipal Consolidation and Efficiency Competition. County Executive George Borrello says that area earned the $20-million award to reduce property taxes and modernize services. Borrello says he was disappointed by the announcement that was delayed for several months. He says the town of Brookhaven on Long Island, was declared the winner. Borrello says Brookhaven has about 500,000 people. He says, though, that taking part was a worthwhile process because county officials learned about other funding opportunities. Borrello says he will have the county "shop" all the projects to the different funding sources from the state. He says he will also be re-engaging the County's Regional Solutions Commission, which he chaired when he was a member of the county legislature. He expects to set up a meeting with the various local governments that were involved in the process.

State lawmakers propose term limit legislation...

A bipartisan group of state lawmakers is pushing for term limits on all elected state offices in New York, including the Legislature. Led by Republican Senator Joseph Griffo of Oneida County, several Senate and Assembly members held a news conference late this past week in Albany to call for passage of bills that would limit the offices of governor, state comptroller and attorney general to two four-year terms. The lawmakers say terms for both houses of the Legislature should be capped at a total of 12 consecutive years. Griffo says the case for finally getting term limits passed in Albany is being helped by support from Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican candidate for governor Marc Molinaro.

PA man arrested for causing damage at Peek 'n Peak...

A Pennsylvania man is accused of damaging a hotel sprinkler at the Peek 'n Peak Resort and Conference Center in the town of French Creek. Sheriff's officers say 26 year-old Alexander Mellin of Fountain Hill was a guest at the hotel back on June 10 when the damage was reported. Deputies say the damage led to significant water damage in several rooms. They say Mellin was issued an appearance ticket for French Creek Town Court at a later date.

City firefighters were hard at work battling two separate fires in the overnight hours...

That from Jamestown Fire Battalion Chief Roger Sigular, who says crews were on-scene at Farm Fresh Foods on West Third Street shortly after 10:30 p.m.. Sigular tells us that they were able to quickly put the flames out on the hood of an oven inside the grocery store. Firefighters used a ladder to climb onto the roof to search the area. Sigular says crews were on-scene until shortly after midnight. The immediate cause of how the fire started is not known yet.

In addition, Sigular says another fire broke out just before 1:30 a.m. this morning at a vacant property at 426 Allen Street. Crews were on-scene there until just after 2:30. The same crews responded to the blaze. The cause remains under investigation.

The investigation is continuing into the overnight fire that has destroyed a long-standing business in Warren, Pennsylvania...

Warren Fire Lieutenant Andrew Moore says crews were called to the scene at Warren Tire Center on Pennsylvania Avenue East about 1 a.m. Thursday and, found the business fully-engulfed in flames. Moore says one crew was still at the scene dousing hot spots late Thursday because there were hundreds of tires inside and around the building. He adds that the Warren County 'All-Hazards' Team intially put a "containment boom" across the Allegheny River near Starbrick due to melted tire product upstream. It was taken out by Thursday afternoon. One firefighter was treated for a minor injury. Eight mutual aid companies assisted at the scene.

Crews will begin tearing down the fire-ravaged clock tower in downtown Fredonia next Monday after it was destroyed by fire early last month...

Associate Pastor Scott Wise with Family Church of Fredonia says a contractor will remove the clock tower, which caught fire on May 4.

Wise says the main structure of the church building was spared from the flames, but there was heavy smoke and water damage. He says the contractor will put up a temporary roof structure once the old one is taken down. He says they'll then develop plans for a new tower. Wise says it has taken time to develop a plan for taking down the clock tower because of the construction involved.

A native of western New York is returning home to be the next president of Jamestown Community College...

The college Thursday afternoon announced the State University of New York Board of Trustees has approved the appointment of Daniel DeMarte to head up JCC, beginning July 30. JCC Vice-President Kirk Young says DeMarte -- most recently -- has been Vice-President of Academic and Student Affairs at Tidewater Community College in Virginia.

Young says DeMarte previously served at Genesee Community College in Batavia, then later at Macomb Community College and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College. He says the new president came from a pool of "outstanding candidates" who applied to the JCC Board of Trustees. Young says the three finalists were all brought to campus to interviews. Young says DeMarte graduated from Archbishop Walsh High School in Olean before moving onto Alfred State. He received his doctorate's degree from North Carolina State University. DeMarte replaces Cory Duckworth, who retired from JCC at the end of May.

Chautauqua County's annual Best Tasting Drinking Water contest will be held this Saturday at the Chautauqua Mall in Lakewood...

Residents from across the county can take part in the contest that will feature a number of water systems. Bill Boria is a Water Specialist from the Chautauqua County Department of Health and Human Services and, helps organize the event.

Boria says there will be a half dozen communities taking part in this year's contest, including Jamestown, Cherry Creek, Westfiled, Mayville, Sinclairville, Frewsburg and Ripley. The contest will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. This also marks the 25th year of the contest. The winner will take part in a regional competition to be held in Rochester in July.

Actress and New York gubernatorial candidate Cynthia Nixon has laid out a $7.3-billion plan to boost education from preschool through college...

Nixon said Wednesday that her plan would be paid for by increasing taxes on wealthy New Yorkers and corporations. The former "Sex and the City" star is running against incumbent Andrew Cuomo for the Democratic nomination for governor. Nixon said New York schools that serve predominantly black and Hispanic students are underfunded and heavily policed compared with schools that serve white youngsters. She led supporters gathered at Borough of Manhattan Community College in chanting "Schools not jails!" A Siena poll released Wednesday shows Cuomo leading Nixon 61 percent to 26 percent among likely Democratic voters. The margin of sampling error is plus or minus 3.6 percentage points.

Court Appointed Special Advocates will benefit from a unique fundraiser on Father's Day at Panama Rocks...

axe throwing.

Jonathan Weston, of Panama Rocks, says 'axe throwing' involves propelling a tomahawk 12 to 18-feet, hoping to hit a bull's eye. It's the newest addition at the park. The preview event will be Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m., at a cost of $30 for two hours and $20 for one hour. Weston says all of Sunday's proceeds will go to help CASA represent children in the courts. To make a reservation or get more information on the Father's Day fundraiser, go to AxcellentAdventures.com. Weston adds their axe throwing is completely safe and supervised.

A proposal from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo to allow teachers and parents to ask a court to remove firearms from the homes of troubled students is advancing in the state Legislature...

The state's Democrat-led Assembly endorsed the measure on Wednesday. But it's not expected to pass the GOP-led Senate, which has proposed its own response to school shootings that include more funds for armed security.

Defending World of Outlaws Late Model Champion Brandon Sheppard took advantage of another racer's misfortune to win last night's 50-lap A-Main Feature at Stateline Speedway...

Sheppard, from New Berlin, Illinois, inherited the lead when South Carolina's Chris Madden spun off a 35th-lap re-start. Sheppard held of local regular Darrell Bossard of Centerville, Pennsylvania, who finished second. Winfield, Tennessee's Mike Marlar was third. A large crowd was on hand for the Outlaws first appearance at Stateline in five years.

Several Warren County fire departments responded to a fully-involved structure fire at a long-time business early this morning...

The Warren Times-Observer reports the Warren Tire Center was completely engulfed in flames around 1:00. The newspaper say there was also a report of possible injury to a responder. The Warren County Sheriff's Dispatch center confirmed crews continued battling the blaze at the Pennsylvania Avenue property at 8 a.m., additional information will be released when available.

A DeWittville man faces robbery and menacing charges after allegedly threatening multiple people with a cross-bow, and stealing property from one of the victims...

Sheriff's officers say they were called to the scene on Beech Hill Road in the town of Chautauqua about 6 p.m. Tuesday, and found that 25 year-old Jerome Rogerson had threatened the victims, and damaged a vehicle. Deputies also accuse Rogerson of grabbing one person by the neck-- hurting them, and interferring with others trying to call 9-1-1. He's also allegedly took the property from one victim before fleeing the scene. Rogerson was later found and arrested. He was arraigned in Chautauqua Town Court and, sent to the county jail without bail.

Chautauqua County Democrats finally had a chance to say formally say farewell and, thank-you to former State Assemblyman Bill Parment...

The long-time Chautauqua County Democrat returned to the area for the first time in eight years to address the party faithful at their annual Dinner at Chautauqua Institution last night. Parment headlined the event, telling stories of past campaigns and the people he worked with. Parment was conservative on some issues and liberal on others. However, when people tried to label him, he said he was just "a Chautauqua County Democrat."

Parment, who served in the state Assembly for 28 years, touted many things that Democrats have been able to accomplish nationally and, in the county. He says it's up to a new generation of Democrats to grab the reins from Republicans who have had a strong-hold on the 23rd Congressional District. While there are five candidates running in the upcoming primary, he urged local party members to unite behind the winner, whoever that person is. All five candidates were on hand and spoke to the gathering.

Lakeview Cemetery will have its first ever 'flag retirement ceremony' tonight at 6 p.m. at the new Veterans' Grove section...

Cemetery General Manager Hugh Golden says the formal program has been organized by the United Veterans Council. Old U-S flags are being accepted at the Lakewview Cemetery office anytime during the day today, or at the ceremony itself shortly before it starts. Well over a hundred flags had been presented as of Wednesday. Anyone who wants to observe the event should gather near the 'big flag' off Marvin Parkway by 6:00 tonight. Hugh Golden says they hope to have the 'flag retirement ceremony' every year.

Chautauqua County officials are getting ready for the annual Best Tasting Drinking Water contest this Saturday...

In the meantime, the county's Department of Health and Human Services is getting the word about a state program that offers free lead testing. Water Specialist Bill Boria with the department says home owners should get their water tested.

Boria says copper pipes with soldered joints installed before 1987 is likely to contain lead. You can get more information at health.ny.gov for more information about the free lead testing pilot program. The drinking water contest will take place Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Chautauqua Mall in Lakewood.

Lawmakers in New York have little time left if they hope to quickly follow New Jersey in authorizing sports betting...

The state Legislature plans to adjourn for the year next week, giving supporters a short window to pass legislation allowing bets at casinos and on mobile devices. While the state Senate's Republican leaders are supportive, Democratic Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie has signaled reluctance, saying he isn't a "big fan" of gambling. Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo has expressed doubts about a bill passing this year.

A Pennsylvania man is accused of driving with revoked driving privileges and possessing two weapons during a traffic stop in Cattaraugus County on Monday...

State Police pulled over 34 year-old Martin Miller-- of Rixford-- on State Route 16 in the city of Olean. As Miller stepped out of the vehicle for further interview... Troopers allegedly saw illegal metal knuckles inside. Additional search revealed a loaded 45-calibur semi-automatic pistol, which he was not allowed to possess in New York state and, a small amount of cannabis. Miller faces several charges including second and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon. He was arraigned and released pending a future court appearance.

A Chautauqua County Sheriff's substation has been opened in the Pine Valley Central School District...

Sheriff Joe Gerace says the substation will be "utilized by deputies for completion of reports, interviews and other law enforcement related duties..." Gerace thanked Pine Valley Superintendent Scott Payne and the Board of Education, saying this is a "win-win" for the district and Sheriff's Office. Having the substation will provide deputies a strategic location to work from, as well as law enforcement presence for the school.

Gasoline prices have jumped nearly 60-cents nationwide over last year at this time and, with that, U-S Senator Charles Schumer says rolling back fuel mileage standards for new vehicles is a big "mistake." The New York Democrat says he has sent a letter as Senate Minority Leader to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt urging him to reinstate mileage standards set six years ago.....

However, Schumer admits it'll be a tough "road to hoe" because Pruitt has shown during his time in public service that he's more of a "friend" to big oil than the consumer who has to pay more for that gas. He says the standards for moving towards more fuel-efficient vehicles included new cars, sports utility vehicles and, light trucks. For the short-term, he says the only other way to bring down gas prices is for President Trump to "jaw-bone" big oil producing nations like Saudi Arabia and Russia.

A car-pedestrian accident that occured on Jamestown's southside Tuesday morning sent a young boy to the hospital...

City police confirm the accident occured about 7:45 a.m. at the corner of Foote and Cole Avenues. Officers say the child was taken to UPMC Chautauqua WCA Hospital for treatment. No other details have been released at this time.

Local Congressman Tom Reed heard from those who utilize the Chautauqua Works program during a visit to the city of Dunkirk Tuesday afternoon...

Five people who use the services spoke with Reed when he stopped by the Central Avenue office and told him first-hand how the program has been helping them in their search for new jobs. Reed says new employment figures show there are more jobs openings than unemployed workers across the nation.

Executive Director Katie Geise with Chautauqua Works, says it was helpful for the Congressman to hear from people who are using the services. While she can talk about the nuts and bolts of the program, those who have benefitted from the program give the best input. Reed says people want work, but the government needs to do a better job of giving them the opportunity to succeed.

The historic Singapore Summit between President Trump and North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un was a success, but is just the start of work towards denuclearation of the Korean peninsula...

Those are the feelings of local Congressman Tom Reed, who says he is "cautiously optimistic" that Kim will make a "good faith" effort to hold up his end of the agreement. Reed adds, though, that if Kim is not serious about eliminating his arsenal, the consequences will be grave. He says the U-S reciprocated by commiting to end military exercises with South Korea.

The discussions wrapped up early Tuesday morning (Eastern Time) with the signing of an agreement between Kim and President Trump. While the U-S committed to ending it's war games, Reed said there will be no reduction in the just over 28,000 U-S Soldiers stationed near the Korean De-Militarized Zone. He believes that both North Korea, and it's strongest ally, China, are convinced that if the situation is not solved peacefully, the military option will be used "to remove the threat." Reed made his comments during his weekly telephone conference call with Southern Tier Media.

The Lakewood Farmers' market has a new manager, a new day, a new location, and a new name...

The 'Lakewood Farmers' and Artisans' Market' will be run by Harriet Sessler, and she says they will open this Thursday, June 13 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.,across from Hartley Park. Ten vendors have signed up, offering fresh produce, baked goods, meats, and honey. Jewelry, soaps, photographs and postcards will also be available. Sessler adds, part of Terrace Avenue will be closed for the market hours from the end of Chautauqua Avenue and Packard Avenue. On days when there is evening entertainment in Hartley Park, vendors will have the option to stay open until 7:00.

A Conewango Valley woman is jailed on $10,000 bail after allegedly breaking into a business in the village of Falconer Monday morning...

Ellicott Town Police accuse 26 year-old Caitlin Arnold of burglarizing Kozy Corner's Kleaning just before 7:30 a.m. and, damaging property there. She was arraigned in Jamestown City Court on one count of burglary and sent to the county lock-up pending further court action.

A new hockey team is coming to play in Jamestown...

The Northwest Arena is welcoming the 'Rebels' to play their home games at the West Third Street venue for their 2018-19 season. The Rebels come to Western New York from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with a record of 41 wins and 15 losses this past season. President of the Southern Tier Xpress Jim Cirbus calls the expansion a "dream come true."

Cirbus says the Rebels have won their Eastern Division Championship three-years running and, have been in the Championship Cup a few times. Training camp will run from July 6-8 and is open to the public. In addition, the Rebels are currently looking for host families for the upcoming season. For more information, visit the Northwest Arena's facebook page.

Jamestown motorists are still paying high prices at the pump this week...

The AAA's latest Gas Price Report says prices in the area held steady at $3.04 per gallon of regular, unleaded fuel. However, prices have dropped $2.03-dollars 7-cents on average statewide. On the national front, gas price averages have dropped four-cents to $2.92 since the beginning of June. Today's national price at the pump is 58-cents higher compared to this time last year.

A New York man has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for trying to join the Islamic State group, despite telling the judge he only wanted to provide humanitarian aid to Syrians...

The U.S. District Court judge told Arafat Nagi on Monday he found his humanitarian claims hard to believe in light of graphic social media posts of Islamic State violence and a photo of Nagi posing with an assault rifle. Nagi pleaded guilty to trying to provide material support to a terrorist organization.

History was made last night as American President Donald Trump met face-to-face with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un and, predicted that he and Un will have "a terrific relationship"...

After an initial 35-minute meeting with Kim, Trump said he feels the session went "really great." Local Congressman Tom Reed says the series of meetings between the two are critical, especially for the North Korean leader.

Reed says he first became optimitic that the meeting would take place after a senior North Korean leader hand-delivered a letter from Kim Jong Un to President Trump last week. Trump said "we're going to have a great discussion and a terrific relationship." Kim says through an interpreter that it "was not easy to get here" and that there "were obstacles but we overcame them to be here."

The process of naming the new National Comedy Center in Jametown the United States' "official" home of comedy now has a second supporter in Congress...

There is now a House sponsor for federal legislation making the designation in local Congressman Tom Reed. Comedy Center Board President Tom Benson says the move is a "major milestone" for the effort. Reed says the bill is similar to the one introduced earlier this year by U-S Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and, he adds that it's appropriate that Jamestown have that distinction.

Reed says the designation will put the National Comedy Center on a "par" with such places as the Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio and, the Baseball Hall of Fame a few hours to the east in Cooperstown. Gebbie Foundation Executive Director Greg Edwards says their studies estimate that the center will have a $20-million impact on the Western New York economy.

The weed and other aquatic plantlife in Chautauqua Lake is about three-weeks behind where it should be and, that's helped hold down weed growth in the lake this year...

That from Chautauqua Lake Association Executive Director Doug Conroe during yesterday's annual meeting of the CLA held at Chautauqua Institution's Atheneaum Hotel. Conroe says Eurasian Milfoil continues to be a problem in some areas, but not what it was like a few years ago.

The weevil insects that are native to Chautauqua Lake have helped keep the milfoil in check the past couple of years. Conroe says the lake is about "three-weeks behind" as far as weed growth is concerned. What is growing moreso this year, he says, is a more "native plant" called Elodea. Conroe says that's been the main focus of the CLA's mechanical weed harvesting efforts the past couple of years. He adds that, so far, the Harmful Algal Blooms have not made an appearance on the lake.

The Jamestown City Council approved the new temporary location of the county's bus system to Pine Street...

In a special meeting Monday evening, council members voted on allowing the Chautauqua Area Regional Transit System--- also known as CARTS-- to move the West Second Street hub to the area around the South County Office Building. The move came after some discussion of what time streets signs should read notifying motorists of when transit buses are parked along the street. The council passed a resolution to allow for CARTS parking from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. CARTS officials say the move is needed with the current streetscape project on West Second Street, and the grand opening of the National Comedy Center in early August.

There are opportunities to expand deer hunting in the areas around Jamestown during next Fall's hunting season, which may allow for a bigger harvest of the animals...

That from At-Large City Councilman Andrew Liuzzo, who says he's continued his discussions with the state Department of Environmental Conservation about the matter. Liuzzo recently told council members that, under the law, hunters can now apply for up to four additional tags and, says he posted the information on his Facebook page.

Liuzzo says landowners in the DEC Area "9-J" can apply for the additional permits, which can then be assigned to hunters. He says it allows hunters to shot and harvest more deer. Liuzzo says it's "a start..." and, will allow some additional hunting in wooded areas around the city to help thin the herd. Ward Six Councilman Tom Nelson says he currently receives more calls on the deer population issue than any other. He agrees it's a good place to start.

A New York state senator wants to use cameras to catch motorists who illegally pass stopped school buses...

Republican Senator Cathy Young's proposal would allow the cameras to be mounted on the stop arm of a bus and record any car that passes when the arm is extended. The Olean Republican says the evidence from the cameras could be used to issue tickets to motorists who break the law. She cited studies estimating that drivers around New York state pass school buses thousands of times each day. She says similar proposals have been introduced in state legislatures around the country as a way to crack down on motorists who put children at risk. Young and other supporters plan to discuss the legislation at a press conference Tuesday.

Four people are jailed, three of them following a raid at a home on the city of Jamestown's northside last Friday...

City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says they were assisted by several agencies in executing a search warrant at 9 Crossman Street about 1 p.m. Friday. He did not provide details, but says three people were taken into custody during the raid. Samuelson says one other was arrested on a Felony warrant after he was spotted on the street, and chased to a location on Prendergast Avenue. City police were assisted by the JPD SWAT Team, State Police and, the U-S Postal Inspector Service.

A Mayville man is jailed on $5,000 on mulitple warrants has been arrested in the town of Chautauqua on drug possession charges...

Sheriff's deputies say they did a warrant check at a home on Chautauqua Street and, found 39 year-old Michael Watson inside. Officers say Watson was wanted on warrants out of Busti and Ellicott town courts. They say further investigation showed that Watson was in possession of a controlled substance, and he was also charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. He was arraigned in Busti Town Court and, sent to the county lock-up. Watson will also appear in Ellicott and Chautauqua Town Courts at a later date.

Invasive weeds in about 100-acres of Chautauqua Lake will be treated over the next two days with herbicides...

The state Department of Environmental Conservation granted permits for the towns of Ellery, Busti and North Harmony to head up the program, which will involve applying the herbicide in the lake's southern basin. County lawmakers decided not to provide added funding for the program and Executive George Borrello says they are focusing money on trying to get to the root problem of the weeds.

Borrello adds they are also supporting streambank stabilization, and helping farmers to stop fertilizers from getting into the lake and, feeding the weeds. Originally, the DEC permitted the towns to treat 191-acres. However, the CLP was only able to raise half of the 500-thousand dollars they needed to treat those areas. Borrello says, while he believes in a "reasonable" and limited use of herbicides, there is not yet consensus to do that.

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The three towns involved will start Herbicide application at 7 this morning and, continue through much of the day. The largest area -- about 50-acres -- is in the town of Ellery. There are just over 39-acres in Busti and, about 19-acres in North Harmony. There may be a second day of application Tuesday. The DEC says there should be no swimming, fishing and animal consumption of lake water in those areas for 24 hours after treatment.

In New York state government news, the state Senate is beset by gridlock as Republicans hold on to power by the thinnest of margins....

With one member away on military duty... Republicans are relying on the support of a renegade Democrat to stay in control. But with the chamber split, Democrats are demonstrating they can shut down work when they choose. The deadlock prevented votes on several bills last week and forced Democrats and Republicans into an uneasy detente. Meanwhile, sports gambling supporters are making a final push before the session ends in two weeks. Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo has said there isn't time to craft the complicated regulations for sports betting. But others hope to include sports betting in a final session-ending deal.

More than a hundred friends gathered with Ruth Lundin at the Audubon Community Nature Center Friday to celebrate her retirement as the center's President...

Lundin said she was excited for Audubon as it 'catapaults to another level' and for herself, because she'll get to attend to some things that had 'to take the back burner.' She said everyone who worked with her has improved the center and has been improved by it. Lundin has led the Audubon for nineteen years. A new President has not yet been named for the Riverside Road facility.

It was quite the scene Saturday afternoon at the front door of the James Prendergast Library in Jamestown...

Young people were reading aloud to an audience that included attentive dogs. A hotdog sale and a petting zoo were occurring at the same time. It was all part of the third annual Jim Roselle Read-a-thon. The event is named for the late Jim Roselle, a longtime WJTN announcer, and fan of the library. The Prendergast's Executive Director, Tina Scott, says Roselle would have been right at home. The read-a-thon is held in conjunction with the library's quarterly book sale. Tina Scott says the next big project at the Prendergast is the major replacement of leaking windows.

A Dunkirk man has pled guilty to federal charges of cocaine possession and trafficking in U-S District Court in Buffalo...

Assistant U-S Attorney James Kennedy, Junior has announced that 30 year-old Fred Santiago entered the plea before federal Judge Frank Geraci, Junior to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, five kilograms or more of cocaine. Prosecutors say between July of 2016 and early May of 2017, Santiago conspired with co-defendant Michael Pacheco to distribute 'kilogram quantities' of cocaine in and around the region. The charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life and a $10-million fine. Sentencing is scheduled for next September 20.

Dunkirk School officials have sent a letter to the city in an effort to continue discussions over establishing a school resource officer for the new school year...

That's the word from Superintendent James Tracy following a recent Dunkirk School Board workshop meeting. Dr. Tracy says the budget approved by voters earlier this month includes funding for the position. Off-duty officers have been volunteering to handle the duties on a temporary basis through the rest of this school year. Dr. Tracy hopes an agreement can be reached soon in order to have someone on board by the start of the 2018-19 school year in September.

Four people have been arrested -- three of them during a raid at a home on Jamestown's northside yesterday afternoon. City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says they were assisted by several agencies in executing a search warrant at 9 Crossman Street about 1 PM Friday. He would not provide details... but, says three people were taken into custody during the raid. Samuelson says one other was arrested on a Felony warrant after he was spotted on the street. He was later arrested on Prendergast Avenue. City police were assisted by the JPD SWAT Team... State Police... and, the U-S Postal Inspector Service. Samuelson says details will be released next week.

Domestic incident leads to arrest in Jamestown...

A Jamestown man faces unlawful imprisonment and assault charges following a domestic incident on the city's southside Thursday night. City police say they responded to the area of South Main Street and Prather Avenue shortly after 11:30 p.m. for an injured female. While making contact with the unidentified female victim.... officers determined she had been struck in the face by the alleged suspect... 23 year-old Claude Wine, Jr. Wine is also accused of preventing the victim from leaving the residence as she was trying to yell for help. Officers located Wine on Broadhead Avenue... and, he was arrested without incident. He's being held in city jail pending arraignment.

Retired Chautauqua County Sheriff's Lieutenant Jim Quattrone has been endorsed by the county's Republican Committee as their candidate for Sheriff in his challenge against incumbant Democrat Joe Gerace. Quattrone... who is from Lakewood... says it's exciting to receive the endorsement... though they were "kind of expecting it." He says he had been working with the GOP since starting the effort in March. Quattrone has 30-years in law enforcement experience and training.... which he believes appealed the most to the Republican Committee. He currently serves as Executive Director of the UCAN City Mission.... and says he's been an instructor at Zone-13 Police Training Academy for the past 28 years. He says he is currently seeking to secure the Conservative and the Independence Party lines on the ballot. Quattrone announced his campaign for Sheriff in early March. The general election will take place on Nov. 6.

Dunkirk Man pleads guilty to federal drug charges...

A Dunkirk man has pled guilty to federal charges of cocaine possession and trafficking in U-S District Court in Buffalo. Assistant U-S Attorney James Kennedy, Junior has announced that 30 year-old Fred Santiago entered the plea before federal Judge Frank Geraci, Jr. to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribution of, five kilograms or more of cocaine. Prosecutors say between July of 2016 and early May of 2017... Santiago conspired with co-defendant Michael Pacheco to distribute 'kilogram quantities' of cocaine in and around the region. They say Santiago obtained the cocaine from a source in New York City. During a May 2nd, 2017 drug raid... agents found about 640 grams of cocaine... 39 grams of marihuana... and, seized four drug scales, $44,000 in cash, $2,000 in money orders... and other drug-related items. The charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life and a $10-million dollar fine. Sentencing is scheduled for next Sept. 20.

The state lawmaker who has led the way in getting the NRG Power Plant in Dunkirk repowered says she remains hopeful that they will be able to overcome the latest hurdle that's holding up the project. NRG officials earlier this week indicated that the New York Independent Systems Operator wanted them to pay an interconnection charge of over $100-million dollars. State Senator Cathy Young says she believes there are ways around the charge that was much more costly that originally expected. Young says she's got some ideas to put in front of the ISO, because the Dunkirk community and county's futures are at stake. Young has be leading the push on the repowering project since it was first proposed in 2012. She says unified support that's been shown over the years remains important to the project... and, she reminds residents that Governor Cuomo has thrown his support behind the repowering project. In January... Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul reaffirmed Cuomo's support for the project during a visit to Dunkirk and had indicated that the plant's conversion would be completed by 2020.

A teenager from Jamestown is being treated at a region hospital after she was struck by a pick-up truck while riding her bike on the city's eastside late Thursday afternoon...

City police say the unidentified teen was riding in the area of Winsor and Chandler Streets about 4:30 p.m. when the accident occured. Details have not yet been released. Officers say the girl suffered back, neck and head injuries. She was initially taken to UPMC Chautauqua WCA Hospital. The driver of the truck was not hurt. No charges have been filed. The accident remains under investigation.

Chautauqua County's top-elected official is blasting a state agency that is responsible for coordinating getting power to New York's electric grid...

County Executive George Borrello is critical of the state's Independent System Operator for reportedly saying it will cost more than $100-million to get the repowered NRG plant in Dunkirk "interconnected" with the grid. Borrello says he's not sure what role the Cuomo administration may have in this, because of the governor's stated goal for using renewable energy in 12 more years.

The NRG Plant, which is currently mothballed, would be converted to natural gas from coal by the time it's supposed to be back "online" by 2020. However, NRG spokesman David Gaier said late this week that the company is also facing a push back in the project's ability to deliver power to as late as 2024. Borrello says NYISO's mission is supposed to be about maintaining affordable electric rates, but he says it's failed because New York has the eighth highest electric rates in the U-S.

State Senator Cathy Young, who has played a major role in the repowering of the NRG Plant, says it's "outrageous" that the Independent System Operator is saying it will cost $100-million to connect with the state's power grid...

The Olean Republican says the project has been "a high priority and the focus of years of intense negotiations, planning and investment on the part of NRG leadership, state and local officials and stakeholders throughout the community." Young adds that "to spring" this on NRG now, with the process moving into it's final stages, is "reprehensible and raises many questions about NYISO's methods and analysis." She says loss of the NRG plant would be devastating to the city of Dunkirk, it's school district, and the county. Young also NYISO officials to join in the effort in "good faith."

The Chautauqua Theater Company will get to leave the confines of the institution this Summer to put on five performances of the Shakespeare play "As You Like It"...

Two of those will be part of the city of Jamestown's "Summer Peformance Series" at Allen Park. During Wednesday's announcement that there will be 11 shows at the Gorenson Bandshell, the Company's Artistic Associate, Sarah Wansley, said Director Andrew Borba first brought up the idea last year.

Wansley says the group's first performance will actually be on Bestor Plaza at the institution on opening day, at 5 PM on Sunday, June 24. The first performance at Allen Park will be on Thursday, June 28. She says the 90-minute show will also go to Southern Tier Brewing Company and, Lakeside Park in Mayville. The second performance at Allen Park in Jamestown will be held on Wednesday, August 15. The program at Lakeside Park will be on Thursday, August 2. For more information on the Chautauqua Theater Company, visit CTCompany.org.

Chautauqua County's Congressman says any proposed law that would take guns away from potentially "dangerous" people must be met with certain standards that don't violate second-amendment rights...

Corning Republican Tom Reed made the comments late Wednesday when asked about Governor Cuomo's proposal of a "Red Flag" bill that would allow teachers, police officers, and family members to seek a court order to remove guns from the homes of troubled persons.

During his weekly telephone conference call with Southern Tier Media, Reed added that he would like to see people focus on the "why?" of gun violence, because he believe people will be more inclined to bring people together to find solutions. Cuomo advanced the bill Tuesday in an effort to reduce school shootings.

Members of the Chamber of Commerce and the Visitors Bureau got a preview look at the National Comedy Center Thursday night...

Executive Director, Journey Gunderson, says work on each of the high-tech and interactive exhibits is nearing completion. The center will open on August 1. General admission will be $23.50, with a discount for Chautauqua County residents. A year-long membership is just $50. Journey Gunderson says there's another special opportunity for people who live here, volunteer as a docent. More information is available at comedycenter.org.

The smell of barbecue ribs are tantalizing taste buds in and around Celoron for the next few days...

Kicking off the summer season, Ellicot Town Supervisor and Rib Fest Committe Member Pat McLaughlin says the 2018 Rib Fest in Celoron is underway. The event takes place around Lucille Ball Memorial Park and, McLaughlin adds this family-friendly event on the lake has "the best ribs you can find."

There are five returning Ribbers this year including Sargeant Oink's BBQ, My Happy Place, Smokin' Joe's Hog Wild BBQ, After House BBQ and, Pigfoot. In addition to rib platters with all the fixings, McLaughlin says live bands playing throughout the day, a "Kids Zone..." and bouncy houses are available for children. There will be fireworks Saturday night at 10:00. For more information, go to CeloronRibfest.com.

Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney, the first openly gay House member from New York, says he's running for state attorney general...

The 51-year-old Democrat from the Hudson Valley announced Wednesday that he's seeking election as the state's top legal officer to go after the "crooks" in the White House, Albany and corporate suites. Maloney is the latest Democrat to announce a campaign for attorney general since two-term incumbent Democrat Eric Schneiderman suddenly resigned last month.

Jamestown police are looking for the person who shot and wounded another man during a disturbance on the city's eastside early Tuesday night...

City Police Captain Bob Samuelson says officers were called to the scene at 47 Bowen Street shortly after 7 p.m. for a person being shot in the leg. He says the victim was transported to UPMC Chautauqua WCA Hospital for treatment. He is currently listed in stable condition. Samuelson says police are not identifying the victim at this time. He did say it was a male in his 20s. There's also been no identification on the alleged shooter, but Samuelson says they have talked with some witnesses, and the victim himself and, they have some leads. He says the victim was targeted. If you have any information on the incident, you can call city police at 483-7537 or their Tips-line at 483-TIPS (8477). You can also contact JPD through their Tips 4-1-1 app. Police say all calls will be kept confidential.

A 2-year-old Silver Creek boy is home with his family -- safe and sound -- after he wandered away from his home late Wedneday afternoon...

Sheriff's officers were called to the scene on Route 5 about 4:30 p.m. after the child, who was seen on the family's deck, took off while his mother stepped away momentarily. Deputies say the mother frantically searched her yard and home without success and, she called 9-1-1. Officers responded and called in several other police and rescue personnel to assist in the search of the immedidate area. Just before starting a massive ground search... Silver Creek Firefighters located the child south of the railroad tracks in a ravine, about a 1.5-miles from his home. He was frightened, but, not hurt and was quickly re-united with his family.

A Dunkirk man will be sentenced in August after he was found guilty of charges in connection with a kidnapping that occurred at the Fredonia Wal-Mart on Route 60 in August of 2016...

Chautauqua County District Attorney Patrick Swanson held a news conference yesterday morning, announcing that 39-year-old Samuel Saeli was convicted of second-degree kidnapping and second-degree "based on sexual motivation." Saeli was arrested by Fredonia Police for kidnapping a 13-year-old autistic boy in the store's parking lot. Swanson was pleased with the results of the trial. The case was first tried last September. Swanson says both charges carry a potential penalty of 8 to 25 years, with post release ranging from 10 to 20 years. The D-A also indicated that there may be federal charges pending, but he would not comment on that case.

The organization that presents 'Fluvanna Fest' every Father's Day Weekend faces some special challenges this year...

Fluvanna Community Historical Society board member, Rea Bobula, said she came in the door and saw the water; she thought the Historical Society was "over". One Monday in the winter, Archivist Mary Turney walked into their building-- the old Fluvanna church-- and found running water from a split pipe that ran down into the basement ankle deep.

None of the society's artifacts were damaged, but they won't be able to use the building for this year's 'Fluvanna Fest' on June 16. All the other usual events will occur, and board member Dottie Muzzy hopes people will come, she says they need a fundraiser. More information on 'Fluvanna Fest' can be found on Facebook, or at runsignup.com.

Warren County's only K-9 police dog will be laid to rest following a fatal training accident Tuesday evening...

The Warren Times Observer reports K-9 "Choper" died shortly after midnight Wednesday as a result of injuries sustained in the accident. The paper says Choper was originally born in Holland and was sworn in as part of the force in May 2015 with his handler Scott Neiswonger of the Conewango Township Police Department. Flags will fly half-staff today in honor of K-9 Choper.

What has been known as the city of Jamestown's Summer Concert Series at Allen Park has been expanded and, will be known this year as the "Summer Performance Series"...

That from City Parks and Recreation Coordinator Julia Ciesla-Hanley, who unveiled this year's schedule of events at the Goranson Bandshell yesterday afternoon. Ciesla-Hanley says they are adding the group "Pearl City Jazz" and the Chautauqua Theater Company to the schedule. The opening performance of the weekly series will be next Wednesday night, June 13, at 7 p.m. with the annual performance by the Jamestown High School Concert Band. Band Director Megan Murray says they're excited to again take part because they get to do more "popular, upbeat" music. She adds a lot of the tunes will be recognizable. The following week, Ciesla-Hanley says "Pearl City Jazz" will be up the following week and, the Municipal Band-- under the direction of Rick Lundquist-- will perform the following week at 7:00.

The annual Catholic Charities Appeal has again gone into overtime, but meeting the $11-million goal has been a struggle this year...

Diocesan Director Sister Mary McCarrick admits part of it is due to the sex abuse scandal involving several priests over the past three decades. However... McCarrick adds that Catholic Charities is a separate entity that operates under the Diocese of Buffalo's umbrella and, none of the money raised will be used for settlements. But, she says it will help victims of sexual abuse.

McCarrick says they have raised just over $10-million of the $11-million goal for 2018. This year's theme is "Love Your Neighbor." McCarrick says Catholic Charities helped about 150,000 people over the past year in Western New York and about 14,400 of those were in Chautauqua County. She says the help runs the gamut from the basices with short term housing and food, to counseling. McCarrick says they have two offices in Chautauqua County, one in Jamestown. For more information, go online to CCWNY.org. The appeal runs through June 30.

Cynthia Nixon says state lawmakers shouldn't rush regulations to permit sports betting in New York state...

The Democratic candidate for governor told reporters in Albany Monday that she's not "a big fan" of gambling and urged lawmakers to take their time with the regulations. The Legislature is now considering permitting sports wagering after the U.S. Supreme Court lifted a ban on sports betting in most states. The "Sex and the City" star and longtime political activist also announced that she supports calls for supervised injection facilities, where addicts can shoot up under the eye of medical professionals who can intervene in case of an overdose.

Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney, the first openly gay House member from New York, says he's running for state attorney general...

The 51-year-old Democrat from the Hudson Valley announced Wednesday that he's seeking election as the state's top legal officer to go after the "crooks" in the White House, Albany and corporate suites. Maloney is the latest Democrat to announce a campaign for attorney general since two-term incumbent Democrat Eric Schneiderman suddenly resigned last month amid allegations that he physical and verbally abused four women he had dated. New York City Public Advocate Letitia James was nominated as the party's candidate at the Democratic state convention last month. Former gubernatorial candidate and Fordham law professor Zephyr Teachout launched her campaign Tuesday. Maloney was first elected to Congress in 2012. He and his husband have three children.

Fordham University law professor Zephyr Teachout is launching her Democratic campaign for New York attorney general with a promise to crack down on potential conflicts of interest in President Donald Trump's business empire...

Teachout says that if elected she would litigate aggressively against Trump, using the vast power of the office as a "sword, not just a shield." Teachout, a former New York gubernatorial candidate, is a leader of a watchdog group that has taken Trump to court over the constitutional emoluments clause. She announced her candidacy outside the headquarters of the Trump Organization at Trump Tower. Teachout faces several candidates in the attorney general race, including New York City Public Advocate Letitia James.

An unsubstantiated threat was made online against Jamestown High School last week...

In a statement released Wednesday, JHS Principal Mike McElrath says "there have been conversations and posts on social media about a potential threat made to Jamestown High School. The threat made last week to the high school was handled swiftly by the JPS administration and the Jamestown Police Department." McElrath adds, there is no credible threat to JHS and the school was never put into a lockdown.

One person was injured following a shooting on Bowen Street Tuesday night...

The Jamestown Post-Journal reports the incident occurred in front of 47 Bowen Street near Peach Street around 7:15. The paper says the unidentified man was transported by ambulance to UPMC Chautauqua WCA Hospital for treatment. His injures are considered non-life threatening. City Police dispatch tells us the shooting remains under investigation this morning and, no arrests have been made.

Two city residents face charges following a domestic incident at a Tower Street residence Monday night...

Jamestown police responded to the property for an alleged assault and found 54 year-old Richard Harmon assaulted an unidentifed male with a baseball bat. He was arraigned, and jailed without bail in Mayville for first-degree assault and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon. During the course of the investigation, officers also determined 32 year-old Jessica Harmon had been involved in a domestic incident with an undentified male and female. She was released on bail for third-degree assault and second-degree harassment.

The city of Jamestown is getting an up to $200,000 grant from a national organization that helps local communities bring a "balance" of fun and activity to the lives of children on the northside...

Near the end of Monday's night's City Council work session, Mayor Sam Teresi announced that KaBoom! has told officials they'll be getting the money to completely renovate the aged Chadakoin Park playground area. Teresi says while city Parks officials sheparded the effort, it was the work of the northside community that made the difference.

Teresi says the city's work on the project began back in March, when the firm "Parkitects" urged Parks and Recreation Coordinator Julia Ciesla-Hanley and, Parks Manager John Williams to apply for the funding. The news was especially gratifying to Councilwoman Vickeye James, who has been a staunch supporter of projects benefitting the northside area where she lives. Teresi says KaBoom! and Parkitect leaders will be in the community for three meetings on Tuesday, June 12.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo says he wants to allow teachers to ask a judge to remove guns from the homes of troubled students...

The Democrat said on Tuesday that he will introduce the idea as legislation. He acknowledged it will face criticism from Republicans. Under the measure, teachers and school administrators would have legal standing to petition a court to remove any firearms from the homes of students considered a threat to themselves or others. Teachers unions say it's a better way to prevent school shootings than arming teachers. Cuomo's proposal isn't likely to pass the Republican-led state Senate, especially with only two weeks before lawmakers adjourn for the year. The governor also wants to raise the minimum age to buy firearms from 18 to 21.

The countdown is underway to the end of session for the state legislature in Albany...

The Assembly is looking to wrap up work on June 20. With about two weeks remaining, Cattaraugus County Assemblyman Joe Giglio says there are some remaining issues, including the legalization of sports betting. Another concern for Giglio, how will the revenues be used by the state. He says he would like any new revenues to go for school safety and security across the state. Former New York Yankees manager Joe Torre visited the state Capitol on Monday, telling reporters he was in Albany on behalf of the league to discuss the issue.

With a political stalemate resolved -- for now -- lawmakers in the New York state Senate have passed legislation to crack down on those who drive under the influence of synthetic drugs...

That bill, which now moves to the Assembly, makes it illegal to operate a vehicle while impaired by any designer or synthetic drug. The chamber passed the measure and dozens of other bills on Monday. Last week, political squabbles between Democrats and Republicans caused work to briefly stop. Republicans control the Senate, but currently do not have a working majority, giving both parties the power to block anything the other party wants to do. Lawmakers plan to adjourn for the year June 20.

There is still a big need for host families for the 16 to 18-year-old Babe Ruth World Series that's coming to Jamestown in early August...

The local Babe Ruth World Series committee is putting out a call for about 30 more host families to go with the 30 they already have. That from Host Family Committee Co-Chairwoman Kathy McMaster, who says being a host family is both fun and rewarding. She says the commitment is for the Thursday before the Series start on August 2, until the team is done with the series.

McMaster knows how great an experience it is because she and her husband, Rich, have hosted several players through the years. She says the players will arrive with their teams on August 2 and, each host family will house two players from the same team. The World Series runs from August 4-11. For more information on being a host family, call Kathy McMaster at 488-0928.

A Brocton man has been arrested for allegedly driving while intoxicated by drugs in the town of Gerry...

State Police responded to the report of a male subject stumbling around and knocking items over in a Country Fair convenience store. However, the man was driving away when Troopers arrived. The suspect, identified as 32 year-old Marcus Watters, was pulled over on Route 60 after committing a traffic violation. Police say multiple hypodermic needles were reportedly in plain view inside the vehicle as Watters got out to perform sobriety tests. A search of the vehicle revealed three bags containing a combined total of nine grams of heroin, eight hypodermic needles and, a pipe containing marijuana residue. Watters was arrested, and will appear in court later.

A Republican bill to relax regulations on the shallow oil and gas drilling that has gone on in Pennsylvania for more than a century is moving ahead in the Legislature despite opposition from Democratic Governor Tom Wolf...

The GOP-majority House voted 111 to 84 on Tuesday for a proposal that covers permits, rules for wells, spills and enforcement for drilling that does not include the much deeper wells tapping into the Marcellus shale formation. Backers say the bill is needed because conventional well operators can't afford to meet tougher standards designed for Marcellus shale production. The Wolf administration says it's strongly opposed, warning it would harm the environment and lessen landowner protections. Eighteen Republicans , mostly from the Philadelphia suburbs, voted no, while 12 Democrats supported it.

The county's bus system is asking the city of Jamestown to allow them to move their hub temporarily to the eastside of Pine Street until late this Summer...

The City Council's Public Works and Public Safety Committees both briefly discussed the matter during last night's meetings and, further discussed discussed the later work session. Public Works Committee Chairman Tom Nelson says CARTS would be using one side of a one-block area.

Public Safety Committee Chairwoman Maria Jones noted the hub area would be next to the South County Office Building. Mayor Sam Teresi says there would be signage put in place for the time period CARTS will use those spaces. Teresi says the parking spaces would be used by CARTS from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Fridays. He adds that public parking would be available evenings and, weekends until the hub moves back to West Second Street on September 1.

A hand-full of Jamestown residents were on-hand to voice their feelings about the city's 2018 Action Plan for it's Community Development Block Grant and HOME Program allocation....

The city is receiving just over $1.1-milion in CDBG funding and, just over $326,000 in HOME funding. City Development Director Vince DeJoy says they have some new initiatives this year, including some projects involving the UCAN men's shelter on West First Street. He says there will be structural and exterior improvements. In addition to the UCAN structural project, DeJoy says the CDBG funding will also be used to do some owner-occupied code issues in the North Main Street corridor. He says that includes some of the "numbered streets" just off North Main.

County Executive George Borrello says the $3.9-million project is being undertaken in response to the state Department of Environmental Conservation's permit requirements and the Total Daily Maximum Load for phosphorus that has been established for Chautauqua Lake. District Director Scott Cummings says the project "is designed to achieve 90-percent removal of phosphorus from the North end of Chautauqua Lake and the Village of Mayville's wastewater effluent." The planning and design of the project was handled by O'Brien & Gere Engineers and the construction is by EE Austin, a local contractor. Borrello says the project is now expected to be completed by this Fall and, will be key in upgrading our current system to improve the health and water quality of Chautauqua Lake."

Local drug agents seized about 64-grams of cocaine during a raid early last weekend in the city of Dunkirk...

Members of the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force last Friday executed a search warrant at 103 Maple Avenue and, arrested 45 year-old Ivan Soto, Senior, without incident. Task Force agents say they also seized scales and packaging materials used to sell cocaine. Soto is charged with two counts each of third-and-fourth-degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. He was taken to the Dunkirk City Jail pending arraignment. If you have any information on suspicious or narcotics related activity in your community, you can reach the task force at 1-800-344-8702.

Lives will be saved through improved pesticide training...

That from farmworkers to the U-S Environmental Protection Agency with a lawsuit filed this week. Every year, thousands of farmworkers are poisoned by pesticides. The 2015 Agricultural Worker Protection Standard requires that pesticide training materials be updated and improved. The new materials expand the content for pesticide safety training, set qualifications for trainers and require more frequent training. Hannah Chang, with the environmental law firm Earthjustice, says the updated training materials have been ready for a year.

Last December, the EPA said it is reconsidering aspects of the 2015 rule and delayed publication to prevent extra work and costs to developers of the training materials and EPA reviewers. The attorneys general of New York, California and Maryland have also filed lawsuits challenging the delay. Chang points out that the farmworkers themselves aren't the only ones at risk of pesticide poisoning, so are their families. The EPA's own analysis says the improved worker protection standard would save more than $64-million a year in avoided health care costs.

A new, on-line fund-raising effort will be used a week from this Thursday to help raise money for more than 60 local not-for-profit, and non-profit organizations in the Jamestown-area...

The day-long "Give Big CHQ" event begins at Midnight on Thursday, June 14 and, the fund-raiser is being completely done online. Chautauqua Region Community Foundation Executive Director Tory Irgang says these kinds of fund-raisers have proven to be very successful in many different areas. If you're interested in taking part and, want to learn more, she says to the website GiveBigCHQ.org. Once you get there, you can see each organization's webpage. Tory Irgang made her comments for this past weekend's "Community Spotlight' program on the five Media One Group stations.

State auditors are reviewing safety plans for schools across New York state in an effort to ensure local districts are as prepared as possible for a school shooting...

Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli announced the review on Monday. The Democrat says auditors from his office will check to make sure schools are complying with a 2000 state law requiring them to create plans for violence prevention, student evacuations and emergency communication. The auditors are expected to begin their field work this month as the school year winds down.

A man from the Buffalo-area was killed in an all-terrain vehicle crash in the Cattaraugus County town of South Valley...

Sheriff's deputies in Little Valley say 35 year-old Robert Geddes of Cheektowaga was riding the ATV on Bone Run Road shortly after 6 p.m. Saturday when he lost control and, the vehicle hit a guard rail. Sheriff's officers were assisted by Frewsburg firefighters, and others. Starflight Helicopter also responded. The accident remains under investigation.

Quick work by Jamestown firefighters prevented flames in one part of an apartment house from causing serious damage to much of the multi-unit structure...

City Fire Battlion Chief Matt Coon says crews were called to the scene at 111 Thayer Street about 4 a.m. Saturday and, found Jamestown Police helping residents getting out of the structure.

Coon says it only took firefighters about 10 minutes to bring the blaze under control and, the fire was completely out in about an hour. He says the apartment involved was vacant at the time and, that dwelling had extensive heat, smoke and water damage. Coon adds there had to be some overhaul work in and around that apartment. No injuries were reported and, an off-duty shift of 12 firefighters was called in to assist. He says the seven people living in the four occupied apartments will be able to return to the dwelling. An overheated exhaust fan was the apparent cause.

Three Mayville residents face drug related charges following a routine traffic stop on Route 430 in the town of Chautauqua early last weekend...

Sheriff's officers say they tried to pull over the car, operated by 19 year-old Joshua Heilman, about 9 a.m. last Friday for not having an inspection sticker. Deputies say Heilman tried to evade the stop by taking a seasonal dirt road and, hiding in a wooded area. He was later located and, K-9 Drake was brought in to help further investigate. Officers say Heilman was found to be in possession of marijuana. His passenger 26 year-old Tyler Bowen was found to be in possession of heroin, fentanyl and marijuana. His other passenger, 21 year-old Erik Baker, was found to be in possession of heroin fentanyl and a hypodermic needle. All three were issued appearance tickets for Chautauqua Town Court.

The third annual Jim Roselle Read-a-thon will be this Saturday (June 9) at the James Prendergast Library...

Executive Director Tina Scott says it's an opportunity for anyone, particularly young people, to read out loud. They will have a couple of dogs as part of the audience to read to this year. The event is named in honor of the late Jim Roselle, an announcer on WJTN radio for more than 60 years. Roselle was a great supporter of the library and always said his library card was the most important one in his wallet. The read-a-thon runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, and is designed to raise money for the library. Phone the Prendergast or stop by to reserve a time. A petting zoo will be brought to the library for the concluding hours of the event.

The mayor of the biggest city in the 23rd Congressional District has thrown his support behind the local candidate seeking the Democratic nomination...

Jamestown attorney Eddie Sundquist has announced that he has received the support of city Mayor Sam Teresi in his effort to get the nomination to run agains incumbant Republican Tom Reed. In a printed release, Teresi says Sundquist's "commitment to honorable public services, his positive energy and focus on bringing jobs back to the Southern Tier is exactly what this district needs." Sundquist says he's "honored" by the endorsement.

In New York government news, lawmakers are entering the final weeks of their 2018 session and the fate of several high-profile bills will soon be decided...

They include measures to make it easier to prosecute sex trafficking and allow early voting. One bill would permit sports betting and another would legalize recreational marijuana. While some of those bills could pass before the session is scheduled to end June 20 others may be too complicated or contentious to pass before time runs out. A bill that would extend the statute of limitations on child molestation and allow victims to sue over decades-old abuse is also awaiting action. That legislation has long been blocked by the state Senate and appears to be languishing again this year.

The weather threatened a few times, but there were no delays in the annual Gus Macker 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament in downtown Jamestown this past weekend...

Three local newspapers -- The Jamestown Post-Journal, Dunkirk Observer, and the Warren Times-Observer -- put on the tournament again this weekend. As play wrapped up Sunday afternoon, Post-Journal Publisher Mike Bird said he was pleased with how the event went.

Bird says they wound up with 171 teams this year, which was fewer than last year. However, he says it's a very managable number and, worked out well because space was more limited this year. Bird was very happy that more than 100 people volunteered to help out. He adds they also had over 20 local basketball officials help out with officiating. He says the papers plan to hold the event again next year. Twenty-percent of the proceeds from this year's tournament will benefit the Alex Foulk Fund to help people beat drug addiction.

In local auto racing news...

South Park, Pennsylvania's Jared Miley passed leader Alex Ferree with 15-laps to go to win Saturday night's 80-lap Super Late Model feature at Stateline Speedway. Ferree, who is from Saxonburg, led most of the way up to that point. The race was in honor of Stateline Co-Owner Jim Scott's 80th birthday. Scott's grand-son, Wyatt, finished third. In the Paula Southwell Memorial 30-lap E-Mod race, Conneaut, Ohio's Joel Watson was the winner.

Quick work by Jamestown firefighters prevented flames in one part of an apartment house from causing serious damage to much of the multi-unit structure. City Fire Battlion Chief Matt Coon says crews were called to the scene at 111 Thayer St. about 4 this morning... and, found Jamestown Police helping residents getting out of the structure. Coon says the blaze broke out in Apt. 6 on the third-floor. He says it only took about 10 minutes to bring the flames under control. He says Jamestown police were helping occupants out of the home on arrival, and everyone was accounted for. Coon says the fire was completely out in about an hour. He says the apartment involved was vacant at the time. Coon says there were no injuries reported... and, an off-duty shift of 12 firefighters was called in to assist. He says the seven people living in the four occupied apartments will be able to return to the dwelling. The cause is under investigation.

The month of May set a new record for warmth in Western New York... smashing the previous record. It was propelled by some record heat over the past week... which included a 91-degree day earlier this week. Forecaster Aaron Reynolds says the average, daily temperature was 65-degrees... which is about 8.1-degrees above normal. Reynolds says a strong ridge of high pressure was just off to our east, and that brought warm, moist air in from the south for the latter part of the month. The change in the weather pattern Friday afternoon triggered some severe thunderstorms in the Kennedy, town of Poland, and Randolph areas. There were flooded basements... and, some high water and flooding on Interstate 86... and, Route 60 and 394. The latest forecast is coming up shortly.

Lakewood lawmakers reject herbicide use in close vote...

The Lakewood Village Board has voted against treating the waters of Chautauqua Lake -- adjacent to the shoreline of the village -- with herbicides. The vote comes after a couple of special meetings on the issue by the board. A statement drafted by officials, and voted on by the panel, states that lawmakers "believe that further study of the interaction between the early killing of curlyleaf pondweed and Eurasian milfoil and the creation of harmful algal blooms is necessary." The measure further states that the Chautauqua Lake Partnership's target date of early May has "come and gone..." and, that many of the conclusions arrived at in the Final Environmental Impact Statement relied upon treatment in May." The measure was approved 3-to-2 with Mayor Cara Birritierri, and board members Ted MaCague, and Doug Shuttee, voting for it. Board members Ellen Barnes and Randy Holcomb voted not to approve the statement.

County Elections officials to take part in regional exercise to strengthen elections systems...

Chautauqua County elections commissioners will be taking part in a regional exercise next month by the state to strengthen the New York's election infrastructure. Commissioners Brian Abram, Norm Green and County Information and Technology Director Jon DeAngelo will be attending the June 6th meeting in Monroe County. Abram, the GOP Commissioner, says it's one of six regional tabletop exercises that will be held across the state that will focus on cybersecurity prepardness and response to threats to election systems. Abram says they and the state want to make sure that votes are tallied and counted the way they should be. The regional exercises are being sponsored by the State Board of Elections and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, along with the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, State Police and State Intelligence Center.

The biggest issue Chautauqua County Executive George Borrello says he's seen during his first six-months in office is developing and retaining an adequately trained workforce. Borrello made his comments during the county Chamber of Commerce's annual Executive Breakfast at Moonbrook Country Club -- north of Jamestown -- Friday morning. Borrello adds there are plenty of resources to help the workforce issue... but, adds there is more that could be done with higher education in the area. He says -- in business -- if you say your mission is failing the community you "need to something else." Borrello adds it's part of finding a "balance" between providing a four-year, $80,000 scholarship to one student... and, then a person who needs $3,500 to apply for a CDL License can't find the money. He says the best thing the "average citizen" in the county can do to help the area is encourage their kids to come back to the county once they complete college or a trade school.

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Borrello also talked about a number of other matters... including progress on the new Athenex pharmacutical plant in the town of Dunkirk, and the repowering of the NRG Plant in Dunkirk. He also talked about expected budget challenges heading into 2019.

Sports Betting legislation deadline coming soon...

New York state could become one of the nation's leading sports betting markets - but time is running out for lawmakers who want to legalize wagering on athletic events this year. The legislative session is scheduled to end June 20, giving lawmakers only three weeks to hammer out the details of any proposal to regulate and tax wagers. A recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling struck down a federal ban on sports betting in most states. Lawmakers in New Jersey and Pennsylvania have already voted to permit sports betting and dozens of other states are considering the step.

The moist air associated with the remnants of Alberto is moving into the area, along with scattered showers and thunderstorms through tonight...

Forecaster Kirk Apffel of the National Weather Service Office in Buffalo says some of the storms could be on the strong side through then. Apffel says there will be another round of showers and thunderstorms Friday and, some of those storms could produce heavy rainfall. But, he adds that we'll get a break from the unusual heat and humidity after Friday. Temps should top 80 away the lake this afternoon, before dropping into the 60s and 70s over the weekend. The city of Buffalo tied it's 2006 record for May 30 on Wednesday with a high of 91-degrees.

Sears is closing another 72 stores after reporting a first-quarter losses and plunging sales, but they do not include the store in the Chautauqua Mall in Lakewood...

The West Ellicott K-Mart store is also not on the list of K-Mart's slated to close. Nine of those 72 stores are K-Marts. The struggling retailer said late Thursday that it has identified about 100 stores that are no longer turning profits, and 72 of those locations will be shuttered soon. Sears Holdings Corp., based in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, lost $424-million, or $3.93 per share, in its first quarter.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says senior North Korean official Kim Yong Chol will travel to Washington Friday to deliver a letter to President Donald Trump from North Korean leader Kim Jong Un...

Pompeo spoke to reporters in New York after meeting Thursday with Chol, the former military intelligence chief. The latest news about the possibly "on-again" summit June 12 between Un and President Trump is heartening to local Congressman Tom Reed. However, Reed says he remains "cautiously optimistic" that the summit between President Trump and Kim Jong Un will happen. Yesterday, Trump said that talks leading up to that summit are going "very well." After a North Korean official recently blasted U-S Vice-President Mike Pence, Trump said the summit was off. However, behind the scene talks continued, and the meeting may happen. Reed says, though, the talks need to achieve de-nuclearization in order to take place. He made his comments for his weekly conference call with Southern Tier media.

A city man faces aggravated DWI charges for allegedly drunk-driving almost three-times the legal limit on Monday...

State Police out of Jamestown pulled over 29 year-old Ramon Pando for a traffic violation on Route 60 and, after failing several sobriety tests, was arrested. Troopers say Pando provided a breath sample of 0.23 while in custody. He was released with appearance tickets for Ellicott Court next month to answer the charge.

There are only two-months left before the new National Comedy Center has it's grand opening and, it's a "very intense" time for people working to bring the project home...

The center remains on schedule to open in Jamestown during the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival August 1-5. But, Comedy Center Executive Director Journey Gunderson says it's also an exciting time as it comes together. Gunderson says, since they expect the opening to be extremely busy... now is the time to reserve your spot to tour the facility.

Gunderson says several of the exhibits -- which are interactive -- are actually being tested right now. She says there are about 50 exhibits at the center on West Second Street. For more information, or to reserve your time slot, again go online to Nationalcomedycenter.org.

There a new bench in the playground area at a park on Jamestown's southside following a dedication ceremony Thursday afternoon...

It took a few years, but the bench -- named in honor of Michael Scalise -- was unveiled at Bergman Park. That from one of the drivers of the project, Sean Kilmartin of Falconer, who was a good friend of Scalise's. Kilmartin says, after Scalise was killed in a motorcycle accident in May of 2011, he and other members of the "Men of Bethel" at Bethel Lutheran Church began the effort.

Michael Scalise's father, Jack, was also at the ceremony along with Mike's mother, Judy. Kilmartin says once they got together with city leaders, and they began looking at locations, they knew the Bergman Park playground was the right place. Judy Scalise says Michael would be very honored to have the bench named after him.

Another $38-million in state funding is now available to help farmers protect their land from being lost to development...

Governor Cuomo has announced that the latest round of funding is available through the state's Farmland Protection Implementation Grant program. The Democrat says the funding is the highest ever offered through the program created to ensure farmland is used for agriculture for generations to come. Individual grants of up to $2-million are available to eligible municipalities, counties, soil and water conservation districts, and land trusts.

County Dept. of Health and Human Services issued Vaping Advisory...
Chautauqua County health officials are now urging residents to stop using all vaping products until the investigation into the defi...